Overcoming opioid use disorder (OUD) can feel like an insurmountable challenge. But when you have the assistance of addiction treatment medications like Subutex, your recovery can go much smoother. But what happens when you develop a dependence on the same drug that was intended to help you overcome addiction to another?
Some people become dependent on Subutex and experience withdrawal symptoms when trying to cut back or quit. When Subutex withdrawal symptoms threaten to thwart your recovery goals, The Right Step Hill Country is here to get you back on track. Call us today at 1.844.675.1628 to learn how our addiction treatment programs can help.
What Is Subutex?
Subutex is a prescription medication used for the treatment of opioid use disorder. It consists of buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist that interacts with the same receptors in the brain as opioid drugs like morphine and fentanyl. Although it does have euphoric effects, they are much milder than other potent opioids. The euphoria induced by Subutex is enough to alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing people to abstain from other opioids as they actively work toward sobriety.
Common Signs of Subutex Withdrawal
Although Subutex is a valuable component of an OUD treatment plan, it also carries the risk of dependence, especially if someone takes more of the medication than is advised by their treatment provider. Once you become dependent on Subutex, you will experience withdrawal symptoms when you cut back your dose or try to stop using it.
Some common signs of Subutex withdrawal may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle aches
- Diarrhea
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
When you are prescribed Subutex to help you overcome opioid use disorder, you may assume these symptoms are related to opioid withdrawal since they are similar. If you have any concerns about discomfort while on a Subutex regimen, reach out to your provider for guidance.
How to Cope with Subutex Withdrawal Symptoms
Medical care and lifestyle changes can help you manage Subutex withdrawal symptoms. Some of the top coping strategies to minimize the discomfort of Subutex withdrawal are:
Medication Management
Minor side effects can be a normal part of using any medication, but if your symptoms become moderate to severe, it is time to speak with your healthcare practitioner. They may decide to taper you off Subutex, gradually reducing your dose to ease the severity of withdrawal symptoms. From there, you may be prescribed a different medication to support your recovery if needed.
Emotional Support
Getting through withdrawal can be challenging, even with medication, so it is best to adopt a whole-person approach to healing. Tending to your emotional needs can help manage anxiety, depression, and irritability. Reach out to friends, family, support groups, or therapists who can provide emotional support as you navigate your recovery.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits
As your provider works with you to taper off Subutex, you should take extra care to get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and eat a well-balanced diet. These healthy habits will help you feel as well as you can, both physically and emotionally.
Stress Reduction Techniques
Nothing will derail your recovery faster than stress. Incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily life, like meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, and mindfulness, will help calm your mind and reduce anxiety or restlessness.
Call The Right Step Hill Country to Get Support with Subutex Withdrawal
When you are dedicated to achieving a sober lifestyle, it can be heartbreaking to learn that you have developed a dependence on your addiction treatment medication. Call The Right Step Hill Country at 1.844.675.1628 or contact us online when you notice signs of Subutex withdrawal. We can help guide you back to your recovery path so you can leave opioids behind once and for all.