We offer various substance abuse treatment programs at Ashwood Recovery in Boise, Idaho. Our friendly and qualified staff can assist patients with medical intervention for detox and recovery. Clients can feel at ease that their journey to sobriety will be safely monitored to ensure lasting success. Contact our team online or call 888.341.3607 now to learn more about our programs.
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a medication that contains a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. It is used in substance abuse treatment programs to minimize the effects of opiate withdrawal. While Suboxone is safe to use under medical supervision, it can still lead to addiction when taken incorrectly. The effects of Suboxone use on mental health can lead to personality changes, too. If someone wants to take Suboxone to help with detox, it is best to use it in conjunction with a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program.
How Does Suboxone Work?
Suboxone belongs to a class of drugs that are called partial-opioid agonists. The buprenorphine part of Suboxone blocks the opiate receptors. This effect means that a patient on Suboxone will no longer feel a euphoric high if they take other opioids. Buprenorphine also stays longer in the body compared to more potent opiates like heroin, resulting in more prolonged effects and less frequent dosing. The naloxone part of Suboxone counteracts the effects of opiates, preventing the risk of misuse and addiction while helping the body heal from physical dependence.
What Are the Benefits of Taking Suboxone as Part of MAT for Addiction?
Suboxone is typically prescribed at the onset of withdrawal. It assists in the detox stage to help prepare patients for recovery. The benefits of taking Suboxone during detox are as follows:
- Decreased withdrawal symptoms
- Decreased cravings
- Lower risk for abuse due to the absence of a euphoric high
- Does not damage the patient’s organs
Even with all the benefits of using Suboxone, it is still an opiate. There is still a risk that Suboxone use may lead to physical dependence. Proper dosing during use and monitored tapering after detox are more manageable and are essential in making this drug work best for patients.
What Are the Effects of Suboxone Addiction?
Suboxone addiction can have detrimental effects on a person’s mental health, leading to changes in personality and behavior. Some of the consequences of Suboxone addiction include:
- Increased irritability, agitation, and hostility
- Mood swings and emotional instability
- Changes in social interactions and relationships
- Decreased motivation and interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Risk-taking behavior
- Impaired decision-making and judgment
Individuals struggling with Suboxone addiction may also experience co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety. It is essential to address both the substance abuse and underlying mental health issues in treatment to achieve lasting recovery.
Does Suboxone Cause Personality Changes?
While there is not a strong link between Suboxone and personality changes when taken properly, there are still side effects to monitor. Some of the more severe side effects can include:
- Difficulty waking up or feeling excessively drowsy
- Lightheadedness, severe dizziness, or fainting
- Shallow or slow breathing, irregular heartbeat
- Severe mood changes
With the side effects of Suboxone, why is it still used in addiction treatment? The answer lies in the relationship between Suboxone and mental health. Avoiding the more severe symptoms of opiate withdrawal through Suboxone can significantly boost the patient’s feeling of wellness.
Get Substance Abuse Treatment at Ashwood Recovery
At Ashwood Recovery, we believe in holistic treatment, including effective outpatient treatment, aftercare, and relapse prevention. We use a variety of evidence-based therapies that focus on giving patients a new sober mindset that leads to life-long wellness. Our aftercare programs include a thriving alumni community that provides continuing support beyond the completion of our treatment programs. If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, contact our team online or call 888.341.3607 now to take the first step towards recovery.