Suboxone is a combination of two drugs: buprenorphine and naloxone. It’s often used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT), designed to help lessen the severity of withdrawal effects experienced by people recovering from opioid use disorder. It can also help those patients avoid relapsing and may help reduce their dependence on opioids in the long term. The withdrawal process can be painful. Understanding the use of Suboxone for pain relief can help you understand how it works and why it’s an important part of our treatment process. Today, we’re sharing the features of Suboxone that make it useful in this circumstance. Chronic Pain and Opioid AddictionBy definition, chronic pain is any type of pain that persists for longer than six months. There are many issues that can contribute to it, including:
Some individuals experience chronic pain absent of any of these conditions. Or, they may have pain that stems from an event in childhood from which they’ve long recovered. The CDC estimates that around 20% of U.S. adults (50 million people) currently suffer from some form of chronic pain. How does this relate to opioid addiction? For centuries, people have turned to opioids to help them manage the effects of chronic pain. As the demand for pain management solutions continues to increase, pharmaceutical companies continue to develop different opioid medications to meet this need. While opioids can be effective when used as prescribed, their prevalence has also led to an uptick in opioid misuse, as well as opioid abuse disorder. In one study, researchers from the National Institute of Health (NIH) found that 14% to 19% of individuals treated for chronic pain became addicted to the very medications they were prescribed. The risk of misusing prescription opioids increases when the patient is also experiencing an accompanying, co-occurring mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. It’s also higher in those who also suffer from a substance use disorder. Pain Associated With Opioid WithdrawlWhen individuals enter treatment programs and begin withdrawing from the opioids they were once dependent upon, the process can be incredibly difficult, both emotionally and physically. While everyone’s experience is unique, there is a typical timeline of symptom progression that most will experience. In the first 24 hours of withdrawal, the earliest signs usually appear. These include:
After the first day, more severe symptoms often begin to set in. These include:
Both immediate and late-term symptoms occur because patients have been using opioids to manage the sensations that their body naturally produces, including their mood and pain response. When those substances are no longer available, it can become difficult to function normally. How Can Suboxone Help?When an individual is going through withdrawal, online Suboxone can help alleviate and relieve the symptoms caused by their opioid use disorder. It works by activating the opioid receptors in the patient’s brain, allowing it to feel temporarily satisfied so withdrawal symptoms aren’t as prevalent and are easier to manage. Opioid receptors are responsible for managing pain sensations, so activating them helps some patients manage the painful feelings of withdrawal. As Suboxone works to mitigate uncomfortable side effects, patients can focus less on the pain they’re experiencing and more on the important recovery process. The buprenorphine contained within Suboxone is a synthetic opioid. It is FDA-approved to help treat the symptoms of chronic pain, acute pain, and opioid dependence. It’s an agent used in a form of opioid treatment called agonist substitution treatment. In this approach, buprenorphine is used as a substitute for a stronger opioid, such as heroin. Over time, the substitute tapers down. This allows the patient to withdraw from their opiate addiction with little pain or discomfort. Not only can buprenorphine reduce opioid dependence, but it can also help reduce long-term cravings for the opioid. This helps improve the quality of life for patients who are undergoing addiction treatment. Avoiding Suboxone Misuse and DependenceAs you learn more about Suboxone’s role in relieving pain, you might wonder about its addictive properties. Can individuals undergoing treatment for opioid addiction become dependent on it? This risk is mitigated by the fact that buprenorphine medicines, including Suboxone, have what’s known as a ceiling effect. In short, this means that at a certain level, it won’t provide an increased feeling of euphoria. At that point, the effects will not increase, even if the dose does. This helps keep patients safe as they work hard toward their opioid recovery. The inclusion of naloxone in Suboxone also helps in this regard. Naloxone is a medication that reverses the effects of opioid overdose. It’s in Suboxone to discourage patients from misusing the drug through injection. If someone tries to inject Suboxone, the naloxone creates unpleasant withdrawal effects. It also makes other opioids less effective. The ceiling effect, combined with the addition of naloxone, makes patients less likely to abuse or become dependent on Suboxone outside of the treatment realm. As with any treatment mediation, it’s important for all patients to practice caution and care. Suboxone should not be taken concurrently with benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, and should not be consumed with alcohol. Learn More About the Use of SuboxoneSuboxone can be an effective treatment option for patients struggling with opioid dependence. It binds to the same opioid receptors in their brain, helping them avoid the painful withdrawal effects that discourage many people from undergoing treatment in the first place. At Recovery Delivered, we provide online Suboxone doctors. This includes prescribing Suboxone as necessary. To learn more about the use of Suboxone and how it works, we encourage you to reach out to our team. If you’re in the throes of opioid addiction and you want to start or continue Suboxone treatment, click here to start today. The post Is Suboxone Used for Pain Relief? appeared first on Recovery Delivered. via https://www.recoverydelivered.com/2023/01/10/is-suboxone-used-for-pain-relief/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=is-suboxone-used-for-pain-relief
0 Comments
Much has been written about the effect of alcohol abuse and the brain, but damage to the brain can come from as little as a drink a day. The amount of alcohol consumption you need to do damage to the brain can be very little–it doesn’t need to be binge drinking and alcohol poisoning. It can be in small amounts, at the wrong times, and for prolonged periods. Alcohol and the Brain: The Immediate EffectsWhen someone drinks, their brain immediately begins to become impaired, even if they don’t feel it. The most common reactions to alcohol are difficulty walking, blurred vision, slurred speech, and memory problems. This can happen with even moderate alcohol consumption. Often these effects are played down, probably due to the fact that they are so common. When you drink and are around other people who drink, you become used to the fact that drunkenness has these results so you think that this is normal. The truth is: It’s not. Alcohol is a drug, and although it is legal, it can have lasting effects on the body and brain. How Does Alcohol Affect the Brain and Central Nervous System?Those who drink persistently over extended periods of time are very susceptible to changes in their brain function, though even light drinking will damage brain cells. Alcohol’s effects on the brain are perhaps most noticeable in blackouts and memory lapses. These should always be taken seriously, even if they happen only once. Aside from the biological effects of alcohol dependence and alcohol use disorders that lead to blackouts and memory lapses, studies have shown how alcohol affects the brain and behavior. Those who have exhibited these symptoms have engaged in dangerous activities during these periods, including vandalism, unprotected sex, and drunk driving. Alcohol Kills Brain CellsWhile it is most often a point that is driven home with young people, whose brains are still developing, brain cell death is a very real thing that happens to anyone engaging in moderate to heavy drinking. The long term effects of alcohol will lead to brain problems, mental health problems, and even alcohol-related dementia. Studies have shown that the overall brain volumes of heavy drinkers are substantially smaller than the brain volumes of those who do not drink or who stop drinking. Getting Help for Alcohol-Related Brain IssuesAlcohol-related brain dysfunction does not need to be a part of your life, and you can get help to overcome alcoholism and even moderate or social drinking. This can not only help your quality of life but can extend your life by years or even decades. Start TreatmentThe post Alcohol Addiction and the Brain appeared first on Recovery Delivered. via https://www.recoverydelivered.com/2022/12/19/how-does-alcohol-impact-the-brain-long-term/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-does-alcohol-impact-the-brain-long-term If you or someone you love is looking for an effective long-term treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), you may have heard of Suboxone treatment. This treatment option is highly effective in the long-term prevention of relapse and can help improve your overall quality of life. Here, we will discuss the benefits of Suboxone as a long-term treatment for OUD. What is Suboxene?Suboxone is the brand name for a medication containing the active ingredients Buprenorphine and Naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it binds to the same receptors in the brain as opioids but with less frequent and intense opioid effects. Naloxone helps to reverse the effects of opioids if they are taken in high doses or abused. When taken as directed, Suboxone can help curb cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, the Naloxone present in the medication serves to reduce or eliminate any euphoric effects that may be associated with taking opioids. What are the Benefits of Suboxone?Suboxone provides a number of benefits to those suffering from opioid use disorder (OUD). 1. Effective for Long-Term TreatmentSuboxone is an effective long-term treatment option, with studies showing that individuals with OUD who receive suboxone therapy have increased chances of successful abstinence. 2. Reduces Risk of RelapseBuprenorphine, present in Suboxone, reduces the risk of relapse to opioid use and promotes a better overall quality of life. 3. Reduces Risk of OverdoseNaloxone, present in Suboxone, helps to reduce the risk of overdose, as it prevents people from taking high amounts of opioids and allows them to slowly come off the drug without experiencing intense withdrawal symptoms. 4. Available onlineFinally, Suboxone is available as an online treatment option, which makes it easier and more convenient for individuals to access this type of help without having to leave their homes or seek out traditional in-person treatment centers. Suboxone vs. MethadoneWhile Methadone has a long history as a Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT), studies show that Suboxone works just as well for OUD relapse prevention. Suboxone can offer an alternative to Methadone in terms of long-term maintenance treatment and is often preferred due to the flexibility it provides with its ability to be prescribed by a doctor and picked up at a local pharmacy. In contrast, Methadone must be taken at a certified opioid treatment program. Beginning Long-Term Suboxone TreatmentSuboxone long-term treatment plans are designed to help individuals sustain their sobriety and reduce the risk of relapse. This type of plan may include regular visits with a doctor or addiction specialist, medication management, counseling, and other recovery supports such as twelve-step programs or peer support groups. Studies have shown that Suboxone is a viable long-term maintenance treatment for those suffering from opioid use disorder (OUD) and can lead to sustained sobriety. Research has also found that long-term Suboxone treatment is linked to reductions in criminal activity, the transmission of infectious diseases, and lower chances of relapse. If you’re interested in beginning an online Suboxone treatment plan, visit our start treatment page today. The post 4 Benefits of Long-Term Suboxone Treatment appeared first on Recovery Delivered. via https://www.recoverydelivered.com/2022/12/14/benefits-of-long-term-suboxone-treatment/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=benefits-of-long-term-suboxone-treatment If you’re getting ready to start your first day of suboxone treatment then you should pat yourself on the back. Treatment programs for opioid withdrawal are difficult, and you’re taking a major step by getting involved with a suboxone clinic, even online suboxone treatment. If you’re at this stage then you recognize that you have a problem and that you are willing to do what it takes to fix it. The good news is that suboxone treatment online can be very effective, with high success rates. We believe that you are on the right track, doing the right things, and that, if you stick with it, you’ll be leading a better life in the days to come. The First Day of Suboxone Online TreatmentSuboxone, when taken as prescribed, is an effective way to reduce opioid abuse. Suboxone as a prescription (buprenorphine and naloxone) are taken as sublingual film–that means under the tongue–and you should start to feel the effects of suboxone within 30-45 minutes. Because this is medication-assisted treatment, you will have medical personnel who will be checking in with you to make sure that you do not misuse suboxone, and that you are taking it in the way it was intended. These medical professionals will help you with the side effects that you feel as you come off of opioids long term. Your suboxone doctor, who gives you the prescription medication, will be monitoring your progress. Before you start suboxone, you will be in withdrawal already. This is important because, if you’re not in withdrawal, then taking suboxone can make your symptoms worse. We understand that this is going to be hard, but remember that this is the path to healing. These withdrawals can include aches and pains, increased heart rate, chills, vomiting, insomnia, anxiety, and difficulty focusing. These are normal, and you will experience some of them. Your prescriber may give you additional medication to help with these symptoms, but may not. The good news is that once you take your first dose of suboxone, these withdrawal symptoms should decrease or disappear. If you don’t experience a loss of symptoms, your prescriber may adjust your dose. And the better news is that once you are on suboxone, your craving for other opioids should drop off if not disappear entirely. This may take weeks or months, but on your first day, you are on the road to recovery. Start treatmentThe post What to Expect On the First Day Of Suboxone Addiction Treatment? appeared first on Recovery Delivered. via https://www.recoverydelivered.com/2022/11/24/what-to-expect-on-the-first-day-of-suboxone-addiction-treatment/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-to-expect-on-the-first-day-of-suboxone-addiction-treatment Many struggling with opioid addiction are asking themselves what it will take to kick their cravings. They’re looking for answers, and for some, those answers come in the form of medication-assisted treatment (MAT). The most common medication is Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. But what is Suboxone, and how does it work? Is it safe? How does it help? These are all great questions, and our team of specialists has the answers. Here’s what you need to know … What is the opioid crisis?It was during the late 1990s — right on the brink of the new millennium — that opioids became a national talking point. The demand for these supposed miracle pain relievers was high. So high, in fact, that healthcare providers handed out prescriptions for OxyContin and Vicodin at unprecedented rates. Considering the pharmaceutical industry’s assurances that the likelihood of patient addiction was incredibly low — non-existent even — the popularity of opioids is easy to understand. But the cost was high. The increase in accessibility led to widespread misuse of prescription and non-prescription drugs, resulting in a decades-long crisis that changed how we help patients treat and manage their pain. Today, one in four patients receiving opioids to manage pain from injury or otherwise struggles with opioid addiction. Opioid-involved overdoses rose from 21,088 in 2010 to 47,600 in 2017. Since then, we’ve seen a significant increase, with 68,630 overdose deaths through 2020. This addiction is a chronic illness and should continually be managed and monitored, treated by trained physicians with extensive knowledge of the subject. Opioid treatment is different for each person, ranging from individual or group counseling, cognitive therapy, and — of course — medication-assisted therapy. And that’s where Suboxone comes in. What is Suboxone used for?You’re probably wondering what Suboxone is prescribed for, right? Opioid withdrawals are a significant concern for those looking for treatment. The symptoms are frustrating to manage and often include nausea, vomiting, sweating, chills, and anxiety. Unexpected complications, while relatively uncommon, are severe: extreme dehydration, heart failure, or death. Suboxone is what is known as an opioid antagonist, developed as an alternative to methadone to ease these symptoms and help combat long-term cravings. It works by blocking the pain receptors in the brain that crave opioids without setting off all those addictive bells and whistles that produce a euphoric high. What is in Suboxone?Suboxone contains a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, sharing effects with other opioids, but significantly weaker than full agonists like heroin and methadone. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that prevents the high if and when buprenorphine is abused or — if other opioids are used. Without that “cloud nine” feeling, the incentive to abuse Suboxone or relapse is much lower. This combination is a powerful one-two punch that reduces withdrawal symptoms and eases the transition into long-term recovery. But Suboxone is just one part of a cohesive treatment plan. As with all medications used in MAT, Suboxone should always be prescribed by specialists in conjunction with ongoing support, counseling, and behavioral therapies. If you or someone you know struggles with opioid addiction, we can help. The post What is Suboxone? appeared first on Recovery Delivered. via https://www.recoverydelivered.com/2022/11/20/what-is-suboxone/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-is-suboxone As you begin your recovery journey, you’ll come across a dizzying amount of information on various treatment modalities and medications. It can be confusing, for sure. We can help. Let’s look at the medication Lucemyra for opiate withdrawal—what it is, how it works, and when this medication is a good fit. What is Lucemyera?The federal government declared the opioid crisis in this nation a public health emergency in 2017. A year later, the FDA approved Lucemyra (generic name lofexidine hydrochloride) to reduce withdrawal symptoms in those who have abruptly stopped using opioids. How does Lucemyra work?When people take opioids for an extended period of time, their brains lower production of the hormone norepinephrine. If you stop opioid use suddenly, your body becomes “angry” that you’re disrupting its chemical balance—remember, it’s used to operating on opioids—and you start to develop withdrawal symptoms (see sidebar). Lucemyra works by helping to restore your body’s natural levels of norepinephrine. Who is Lucemyera for?Lucemyra is for those who have abruptly stopped using opioids and do not plan to go on to medication-assisted treatment. Is Lucemyra a controlled substance?No, it is not. Lucemyra is classified as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. It is not a controlled medication or addictive. Are there side effects with Lucemyra?The Mayo Clinic reports a long list of possible side effects, but keep in mind—the serious ones are relatively rare, and the more common ones aren’t debilitating. More common
Less common
Discuss the possible side effects with your doctor before starting this medication. Who should not take Lucemyra ?People with any of the following should not take Lucemyra:
How much does Lucemyra cost?In October 2022, GoodRx listed the cost for a month’s supply of Lucemyra as being between $1,145.61 and $1,267.57. Note: The manufacturer has low- and no-cost pricing options for those with and without private medical insurance. See the “support and savings” section of the Lucemyra site. Is there a generic for Lucemyra?Currently, there is no generic version of this medication. Does Medicare cover Lucemyra?No it doesn’t, according to GoodRx. What is the typical starting dose of Lucemyra?According to the manufacturer, the typical starting dose is three tablets (each tab = 0.18 mg) taken 4 times a day for the first 5 to 7 days after the last opioid use. After that, your doctor will dose you based on the severity of your remaining symptoms. The maximum daily dose is 16 tablets a day (4 tablets per dose). If you have liver or kidney problems, your dose might be different. When should I start taking Lucemyra?You can take Lucemyra during the period when you experience a lot of withdrawal symptoms, which is usually the first 5 to 7 days after your last opioid use. How long should I take Lucemyra?As always, this is up to your prescribing doctor, however, the standard is up to 14 days. Can I stop Lucemyra if I feel better?No. Suddenly stopping this medication may cause high blood pressure and/or withdrawal symptoms, including trouble sleeping, muscle aches, diarrhea, anxiety, sweating and chills. Your doctor should taper your dose over 2 to 4 days. Will Lucemyra stop all withdrawal symptoms?Unfortunately, no drug has accomplished this yet. Stopping opioid addiction is worth it a millionfold, but there’s discomfort to withdrawing—there’s just no way around that. So while Lucemyra can’t completely remove all withdrawal symptoms, it does provide relief to make the process more tolerable. Is Lucemyra a treatment for opiate use disorder?No, Lucemyra is not considered treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), also known as opioid addiction. It treats the symptoms of withdrawal, but not the underlying disorder. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) defines OUD as “a desire to obtain and take opioids despite social and professional consequences… [people with OUD experience] an overpowering desire to use opioids, increased opioid tolerance, and withdrawal syndrome when discontinued.” Is there treatment for OUD?The NCBI continues, “The disease is treated with opioid replacement therapy using buprenorphine or methadone, which reduces the risk of morbidity and mortality. Naltrexone may be useful to prevent relapse. Naloxone is used to treat opioid overdose.” Many people with OUD find it helpful to combine MAT with group and/or individual counseling and participation in peer support and 12-step programs. Additional medications for opioid use disorder Three medications are FDA-approved to treat OUD: methadone, naltrexone, and buprenorphine.
Suboxone is the brand name of the medication that combines buprenorphine with naloxone, a medication that reduces opioid cravings. The combination also blocks the receptors in the brain that “receive” the high. What’s the difference between Lucemyra and Suboxone?Lucemyra is for those who want to do a shorter-term detox process. A typical path to recovery using this medication might look like:
Suboxone is for those who want to do a longer-term MAT program. A typical path to recovery using Suboxone might look like:
Opiates vs opioids: Is there a difference? Yes. According to The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
The following are all opioids:
Opioid withdrawal symptoms The withdrawal symptoms from suddenly stopping opioids after extended use are severe. They include:
Recovery Delivered may be able to help you or your loved oneWe can help someone who wants to get off opioids. Recovery Delivered offers 100% online access to licensed online Suboxone providers, and the medication is delivered right to your door. Please reach out to us to discuss medication for drug withdrawal and detox. The post Lucemyra for Opioid Withdrawal: The Complete Guide appeared first on Recovery Delivered. via https://www.recoverydelivered.com/2022/10/17/lucemyra-for-opioid-withdrawal-the-complete-guide/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lucemyra-for-opioid-withdrawal-the-complete-guide For short-term mild body pain, over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as paracetamol and ibuprofen are usually enough to induce relief. However, a patient may experience more intense, continual pain in circumstances that necessitate stronger treatment. These situations include chronic headaches and backaches, recovery from major surgical operations and injuries from sports, elevated falls, and other types of accidents. In these cases, doctors might prescribe stronger narcotic medications known as opioids to ease the pain. While opioids are highly effective in attending to moderate and severe pain, there are known risks associated with these treatments, most notably the potential for drug addiction. With opioids being one of the most addictive drugs used worldwide, opioid use disorder (OUD) can lead to recurring harmful physical and emotional repercussions. In this article, we aim to answer the question, “what are opioids?” Furthermore, we also aim to shed light on possible treatment options for opioid users seeking assistance with their addiction. What Makes a Drug an Opioid, and What Are Opioids Used For?Opioids are chemical drugs that operate by binding to opioid receptors in the spinal cord, brain, gut, and other areas of the body. Natural opioids are a class of drugs extracted from the opium poppy plant, while synthetic opioids are artificial compounds made in a laboratory that emulate the mechanisms of their natural counterparts. Our current understanding of how opioids work is that they regulate the transmission of pain signals and produce significant amounts of the reward neurotransmitter known as dopamine. These processes are responsible for the familiar pain-relieving effect known to opioids, but they also induce a relaxing “high” or a heightened sense of euphoria. We can observe that this addictive outcome, combined with the tendency for patients to develop tolerance, runs the risk of causing OUD. List of OpioidsOpioids are one of the most accessible drugs used in the country. Over 16 million individuals are estimated to have suffered from opioid dependency at one point in their lives, and this statistic is exacerbated by the countless types of opioids available on the market. In this section, we present a common opioid list accompanied by descriptions of each form of the drug. HeroinHeroin is an opioid with a chemical composition similar to that of morphine. This compound is extracted from the seed pod of various opium poppy flowers in Southwest Asia and Latin America, and it can appear in the form of a white or brown powder or a viscous black tar. Injecting, sniffing, and smoking are the common methods of intaking heroin. Some users even mix the substance with other drugs such as cocaine. Heroin is highly addictive, and it can enter the brain very quickly and slow down the heart rate and breathing. Short-term effects of the drug include dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, and impaired cognitive function. On the other hand, prolonged use may lead to insomnia and liver and kidney disease if a significant amount is consumed to the point of overdose. OxycodoneSynthesized via the compound thebaine from the opium poppy, oxycodone is a semi-synthetic narcotic commonly used for relieving moderate to severe pain. Much like other opioids, oxycodone acts on the central nervous system (CNS). This medication generally comes in the form of capsules, tablets, or a solution, and it is also available in combination with other analgesics like ibuprofen and aspirin. While oxycodone is sold on the market under brand names like OxyContin® and Percodan®, the drug is only legally available through a prescription. Common street names for oxycodone are OC and kicker, and it is often abused via either an oral or intravenous route. It is very possible to overdose on oxycodone, with its known effects including extreme drowsiness, fainting, coma, and even death. FentanylFentanyl is a synthetic opioid first introduced in the 1960s for its use as an intravenous anesthetic. The manufacture and distribution of fentanyl is legal under supervision of a medical professional, but its potency has led to rampant cases of drug addiction. Fentanyl is known to be 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Pharmaceutical fentanyl prescribed by doctors often appears in oral lozenges, transdermal patches, and sprays. Meanwhile, illicitly produced versions of the drug are encountered either as tablets or as a powder. Fentanyl overdose can easily be detected by a trio of displayed symptoms: coma, abnormally small pupils, and hypoventilation. Furthermore, one can use fentanyl detection strips to test for the presence of the compound in drugs. HydrocodoneOne of the most frequently prescribed opioids in the United States, hydrocodone is an orally active substance used as a pain reliever as well as a cough suppressant. It is chemically similar to codeine and morphine and produces similar physical effects. In medications, hydrocodone is usually present in combination with other compounds such as acetaminophen (Vicodin®, Lorcet®, and Lortab®) and antihistamines (Hycomine®). Also known by its street names Hydro, Norco, and Vikes, hydrocodone is prone to oral abuse in the form of tablets, capsules, and syrups. Dizziness, anxiety, and depression are observed to be prolonged effects of hydrocodone. Unmanaged physical and mental dependence may lead to an overdose, which can cause severe liver damage, loss of consciousness, and death. What Are the Most Abused Opioids?Presently, opioids are the main cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States, with 68,630 overdose deaths in 2020 involving opioids according to the CDC, which is approximately 75% of the total overdose deaths for that year. Synthetic opioids make up the majority of opioid-related deaths (the cause of 82% of deaths), specifically illicitly-produced fentanyl. We can attribute this statistic to the high potency of fentanyl and the increasing number of drug submissions testing positive for fentanyl but not a higher rate of official fentanyl prescriptions. Aside from fentanyl, heroin, hydrocodone (Vicodin®), and oxycodone (OxyContin®) top the commonly abused opioids list as semi-synthetic drugs known for rampant misuse. Drug deaths involving heroin in particular were seven times higher in 2020 compared to 1999. The combined sensation of euphoria and pain relief produced by these opioids plays a major contribution to these drug addiction numbers. Opioid Addiction Treatment Options for Long-Term UsersThree million American citizens have had or currently suffer from OUD, and about 500 thousand have heroin dependency. For long-time users of opioids, we strongly suggest considering several addiction treatment options available to reduce the risk of future health conditions associated with prolonged misuse of the drugs.
The post What Are Opioids? appeared first on Recovery Delivered. via https://www.recoverydelivered.com/2022/10/14/what-are-opioids/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-are-opioids How to Recognize the Signs Your Suboxone Dose is Too Low Most people are aware of the continuing opioid crisis in the United States. Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) refers to an overwhelming desire to use opioids, increased tolerance to opioids and unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when discontinued. Top signs of opioid abuse include:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. rose from 70,029 in 2020 to 80,816 in 2021. And synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, accounted for the majority of these deaths due to drug overdose. Getting Help for Opioid Addiction Fortunately, there are many options for people seeking help dealing with OUD. Suboxone is one such choice that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat opioid dependence. It is the brand name for a prescription drug that contains both naloxone and buprenorphine. The drugs work in combination to help combat the severity of opioid withdrawal symptoms. Suboxone is also one of the various medications used as part of a Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) regime. There are many benefits of MAT such as reducing the need for inpatient detox, improving patient survival rates, decreasing illicit opiate use, and increasing treatment retention. When someone is first starting Suboxone they need to be closely monitored to ensure the optimal dosage. The medication is used both to reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent you from using opioids. Suboxone, along with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and counseling is used as part of a comprehensive program to help manage substance use disorders. It is effective at treating addiction to opioids and opiates such as:
Healthcare practitioners tailor the treatment plan according to the unique and specific needs of each patient. The goal is to prescribe the lowest dose of Suboxone possible to help minimize cravings and prevent uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms which, when uncontrolled, could lead to drug relapse, overdose, or even death. But how low is too low when it comes to administering Suboxone? Continue reading to get answers to all your questions regarding proper Suboxone dosage. Signs Your Suboxone Dose is Too Low Suboxone comes in tablet, injectable, or sublingual film formulations. The sublingual film and oral tablets are easy to administer as they quickly dissolve when placed under the tongue. SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and mental Health Services Administration has a quick start guide for administering buprenorphine as part of an Opioid Use Disorder treatment program. Typical buprenorphine dosage guide:
You should take note that it usually takes a couple of days for your body to adjust to Suboxone when you first start taking it. Your healthcare provider will most likely start you on a low dosage and see how your body reacts. If you still experience cravings, due to too low a dose, this could cause you to eventually relapse. If you are still experiencing cravings and/or uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal within a few days of your initial dosage, this may be a sign the dose is too low. While each person is different, here are a few of the more common opioid withdrawal symptoms:
Suboxone used for SUD is typically taken as a single daily dose. Never change your dosage without first speaking with your healthcare team. If you continue to experience withdrawal symptoms after taking Suboxone, it may be time to return to the MAT clinic and consult with your doctor to adjust your dose. A long-term Suboxone-based MAT treatment plan typically includes four phases. The induction phase helps decide the correct dose while the stabilization phase works on determining the underlying causes of addiction. Your doctor will continue you on a maintenance phase, the length of which is determined by your specific treatment needs, while the goal of the final taper phase is to gradually reduce the required dose. Keep a record of how you feel after taking your daily dosage of Suboxone. During your first 8-weeks, it’s recommended you consult with your healthcare team on a weekly basis. During these weekly follow-ups, your healthcare provider can recommend increasing or decreasing your dosage as needed. How to Know if You Need to Increase Your Dose? Some people take Suboxone, in place of opioids, to help manage chronic pain. If you’re still experiencing significant pain after taking your daily dosage, it may be time to contact your healthcare provider. For any pain that isn’t well controlled, your doctor may recommend multiple smaller doses, around 2 mg, up to 3 times a day to manage your pain better. But note that eventually, Suboxone creates a ceiling effect. That is a dose where you experience moderate pain relief and/or a reduction in cravings, but where higher dosages don’t provide any additional benefits. This so-called ceiling effect is part of what makes Suboxone a safe and effective treatment as the risk of overdose is greatly reduced. And one final note on dosage – you should also recognize when you’re taking too much Suboxone. Too high a dose can have you feeling sleepy, sedated, dizzy, or nauseated. Opioid Addiction Treatment Option Scheduling a 30, 60, or 90-day stay in a treatment center isn’t your only option when researching your options for opioid addiction treatment. While you could take a chance at finding a trustworthy local treatment clinic by searching “Suboxone doctors near me”, you may want to check out online alternatives. One such option is Recovery Delivered, an easy online Suboxone program for anyone cleared to enroll in a Medication-Assisted Treatment program. Online treatment offers a convenient and affordable choice, especially when compared to traditional treatment facilities. It’s important to note that, at Recovery Delivered, we focus on providing patient-centric recovery. If a person is given too low a dose of Suboxone, they are more likely to relapse, so we make sure our patients are given the right dosage to ensure their long-term success. This is why we require patients who are new to Suboxone to meet weekly with one of our providers. This is different compared to most other Suboxone providers, who may only meet monthly with their patients. Get Started on Your Journey to Recovery Today The major benefit of using our online opioid recovery program is that you can do it at home and work around your busy schedule. This means you don’t have to take time off from work to attend inpatient or outpatient counseling and treatment sessions. After your initial visit to evaluate your medical history, one of our licensed providers will write you a prescription for Suboxone and send it to your local pharmacy. All necessary drug testing is conveniently delivered to your home then you simply arrange weekly telemedicine follow-ups with your doctor during the first 6 to 8 weeks of treatment. We work with licensed online Suboxone doctors in all 50 states to create a custom treatment plan that works with your unique and specific needs. Call us today and download the Recovery Delivered app to your phone and get started on your own personal journey of recovery! The post Signs Your Suboxone Dose is Too Low appeared first on Recovery Delivered. via https://www.recoverydelivered.com/2022/10/10/signs-your-suboxone-dose-is-too-low/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=signs-your-suboxone-dose-is-too-low A large part of addiction recovery and staying sober is reminding yourself that it’s a process and why you are changing your life. To support in this, we have put together a list of the top 10 addiction quotes we think can help those in need get and stay sober. If you are struggling, read a few of these and tell us which ones resonate with you the most. Quote One: “The first step is always the hardest.” – AA saying This is such a common phrase in recovery because it’s so true. It takes a lot of strength and courage to admit that you have a problem and want to seek help. Once you’ve taken that first step, it does get easier but remember that it’s okay to ask for help along the way. Quote Two: “Recovery is something that you have to work on every day.” – Unknown This quote is a great reminder that addiction recovery is not a linear process. There will be good days and bad days but as long as you keep working at it, progress will be made. Quote Three: “You are not your disease.” -Unknown A well known quote among those in recovery, this resonates with us because for many battling addiction, they live in the past, which…frankly is not a great memory. The disease of addiction doesn’t define the person, the actions do. So, change the actions, change the person. Quote Four: “Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” -JK Rowlings Sadly, “rock bottom” is needed for many to recognize they have an addiction issue. This quote on addiction recovery speaks to us as way of say, look how far you’ve come. Quote Five: “Recovery is something that you have to work on every single day and it’s something that it doesn’t get a day off.”-Demi Lovato The sober life is not an easy one, but worth it. This quote really drives home the point that addiction recovery takes effort each and every day. No days off! Quote Six: “The moment I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” -Lao Tzu This is one of our favorite sober quotes because addiction can feel like such a weight around your neck. It’s like “the monkey on your back”. letting go of what we are used to- the bad habits Quote Seven: “My recovery must come first so that everything I love in life does not have to come last.“ -Unknown The key to a new and better life for those fighting addiction is that only through sobriety and recovery can their life be what they want. Putting ones recovery first can all but guarantee this. Quote Eight: “I chose sober because I wanted a better life. I stay sober because I got one.” -Anonymous Never forget where you started and where you are now. As recovery is a day by day, even minute by minute, decision without HUGE changes instantly it’s important to take daily inventory of the blessings being sober has provided. Quote Nine: “It ain’t about how hard ya hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done! -Rocky Balboa (The Movie Rocky Balboa (2006)) Stumbling and falling is part of life whether you’re sober or not. What matters most is getting back up again and continuing on your journey. Quote Ten: “There is no shame in beginning again, for you get a chance to build bigger and better than before.” -Unknown With relapse a part of many people’s recovery journey, it’s important to remember that even if you fall off, it gives you an opportunity to identify the “why” behind the mistake and put a plan into place for future moments of weakness. The post Top 10 Addiction and Sober Quotes To Help Get and Keep People Sober appeared first on Recovery Delivered. via https://www.recoverydelivered.com/2022/08/19/top-10-addiction-and-sober-quotes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-10-addiction-and-sober-quotes |
About Us
The first online Suboxone provider in the U.S. Meet licensed Suboxone doctors online and save time AND money. No more lines. No more unavailable doctors. Just treatment on your timeline. |