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Buprenorphine/Naltrexone abuse is a growing problem in the United States. Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is a synthetic opioid that has been used as a painkiller and as an addiction treatment for years.

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone use can occur when someone takes it to get high or by taking more than prescribed by their doctor. Buprenorphine/Naltrexone use can cause people to be less responsive and have slowed reaction time, among other dangers.

What Is Buprenorphine/Naltrexone?

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone1https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682134.html is a synthetic opioid that has been used as a painkiller and as an addiction treatment for years.

It works by changing the brain’s and body’s response to pain, causing you to feel more relaxed or sleepy. It can be taken orally in pill form or dissolved under your tongue (sublingually).

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is also available in combination with other medications such as paracetamol (acetaminophen). This version of Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is known as Methadose or Dolophine.

Methamphetamine abusers take Buprenorphine/Naltrexone because it causes euphoria similar to other opioids like heroin, morphine, hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin) and fentanyl.

The History of Buprenorphine/Naltrexone

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone has been used as a painkiller since WWII and was approved by the FDA in 1947 to treat severe pain or opioid addiction. However, it wasn’t until many years later that it was publicly available, and it was officially released to the public in 1964. Buprenorphine/Naltrexone can replace other opioids and block their effects on your body, reducing withdrawal symptoms that may come with stopping them suddenly.

Is Buprenorphine/Naltrexone Safe?

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is a prescription medication that the FDA has approved2https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medication-assisted-treatment-mat#:~:text=There%20are%20three%20drugs%20approved,with%20counseling%20and%20psychosocial%20support. to treat opioid addiction and severe pain. If Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is taken correctly, it can have tremendous benefits in ending your opioid addiction.

In terms of how safe Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is, it is essential to know that when controlled and in a safe environment, it is a reasonably safe drug.

With that being said, many considerations and cautions should be in place before beginning your journey using this drug.

If addiction occurs, it can lead to many health risks and challenges.

Who Prescribes Buprenorphine/Naltrexone?

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is a prescription medicine, but only someone with special training or requirements can prescribe it.

Your first prescription (or script) will come from your primary care doctor or a prescriber at your drug treatment center. This might be a nurse, doctor or a prescribing pharmacist. They’ll ask you to pick a pharmacy where you want to get your pills. You may either visit a local pharmacy or one near to home or work. To begin with, you’ll generally go to the pharmacy once a day and pick up your Buprenorphine/Naltrexone there. If that is difficult for you, speak with your prescriber about it.

The reason that Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is so closely regulated is due to the addictive nature of the drug. Because of this, it is recommended that you take Buprenorphine/Naltrexone in a controlled environment, such as Windward Way Recovery. That way, you can ensure you receive the proper doses at the appropriate time.

How Do You Take Buprenorphine/Naltrexone?

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is often consumed orally in the form of a tablet, but it is most often given in the form of a fruit-flavored drink to cure opioid addiction. Once a day, the powder is dissolved and taken by mouth.

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone may also interact with other drugs you’re taking, such as antidepressants or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). Buprenorphine/Naltrexone abuse often has severe consequences, including reduced response time and slowed reaction times which put people in danger of causing harm to themselves and others.

How Long Do You Have to Take Buprenorphine/Naltrexone?

You will generally be on Buprenorphine/Naltrexone for a long period if you’re receiving it for maintenance treatment. If you’re undergoing detox, your dose will gradually be decreased until you don’t need it anymore. It can take up to 12 weeks to complete. If you’re detoxing in an institution or residential treatment center, it might be faster.

Talking to the experts at Windward Way Recovery will give you a better idea of the timeline for how long you should be on Buprenorphine/Naltrexone, as each patient has different needs.

How Do People Become Addicted to Buprenorphine/Naltrexone?

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is a highly regulated opioid that is used to treat addiction and cravings. It is so controlled that people who take Buprenorphine/Naltrexone in an outpatient setting must visit a clinic each day to receive their dose. It’s a strong opiate with the potential to be habit-forming.

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is used to help treat opioid addictions, so becoming addicted to the new substance that makes your body feel better is common. People become addicted to Buprenorphine/Naltrexone the same way that they become addicted to other opioids like heroin, morphine, hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin) and fentanyl. Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is a long-lasting opioid, which means if taken regularly, the body will develop an increased tolerance for Buprenorphine/Naltrexone over time.

This can make Methadose or Dolophine withdrawal symptoms worse than people who only use once in a while because of their increased tolerance levels. Methamphetamine abusers take Buprenorphine/Naltrexone because it causes euphoria similar to other opioids like heroin, morphine, hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin) and fentanyl.

Who Abuses Buprenorphine/Naltrexone?

The important thing to know about Buprenorphine/Naltrexone addiction is that it can happen to anyone taking Buprenorphine/Naltrexone. Methadose or Dolophine are opioids, which means that they have the same effects as heroin, morphine, hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin) and fentanyl.

Anyone taking Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is at risk of becoming addicted. However, addiction is much more common with Buprenorphine/Naltrexone abuse. Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is long-lasting, so it can take up to six hours for the effects of Buprenorphine/Naltrexone to wear off. Sometimes, users may take another dose before the previous dose has worn off because of the long-lasting effect. This can contribute to Buprenorphine/Naltrexone abuse.

Taking Buprenorphine/Naltrexone in a controlled setting with experts and professionals is the best way to minimize the risk of Buprenorphine/Naltrexone abuse.

What Are the Signs of Buprenorphine/Naltrexone Addiction?

Because the symptoms of Buprenorphine/Naltrexone addiction are often less apparent than those of other opioids, detecting it may be difficult. Because many people use Buprenorphine/Naltrexone as part of a treatment program for drug abuse, they may not exhibit any symptoms that appear unusual or unanticipated.

  • Dizziness and a light euphoric sensation are two of the first signs of opioid dependence.

Some symptoms that are common include:

  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sweating
  • Weight changes
  • Vision problems
  • Urination problems
  • Flushing of the skin

What Should You Do If You Start Noticing These Symptoms?

If you start to notice any of these symptoms and take Buprenorphine/Naltrexone, make sure you seek professional advice or support. Buprenorphine/Naltrexone can be dangerous in high doses, so make sure you carefully follow your doctor’s instructions.

You can visit your doctor or reach out to Windward Way Recovery, which has on-site nurses and experts who can help you on your road to recovery.

How Long Does a Detox Take?

Because Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is a long-acting opioid, the complete withdrawal and detox process can take considerably longer than it does with other narcotics or addictive drugs. The symptoms may begin as early as the first 24 hours after last using Buprenorphine/Naltrexone, and the entire withdrawal process might take up to several weeks, depending on how serious an addiction you have. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect during the first few weeks of your Buprenorphine/Naltrexone detox.

Typical Detox Timeline

The timeline for recovering from Buprenorphine/Naltrexone abuse will vary for each individual based on multiple factors. Those factors include age, weight, how long you have used Buprenorphine/Naltrexone, personal metabolism and addictive levels and more.

Days One to Two

The first two days are usually quite normal, with the initial withdrawal symptoms not generally appearing for at least 24 hours after the final dose was taken.

The following symptoms may show up during the first two days:

  • Muscle aches
  • Increased heartbeat
  • Fever and chills

Days Three to Eight

It’s during this time that the Buprenorphine/Naltrexone withdrawal symptoms are usually at their worst. The symptoms might range from barely noticeable to very severe, depending on the level of addiction. This is also when cravings are at their peak.

Additional symptoms that you may experience during days three through eight include:

  • Anxiousness
  • Aches and pains
  • Irritable
  • Nauseous
  • Depression
  • Cramping
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Vomiting

Days Nine to 15

After you’ve made it through day nine, you’ll probably notice that some symptoms have lessened. That does not, however, imply that you are out of the woods yet.

You will almost certainly still have:

  • Strong cravings
  • Physical discomfort
  • Irritability
  • Diarrhea
  • Depression

Days 15+

After you stop taking Buprenorphine/Naltrexone, you might experience symptoms such as intense cravings, poor energy levels, and sleeplessness for weeks. Many people also report experiencing post-withdrawal symptoms, commonly known as PAWS, during the weeks and months after stopping Buprenorphine/Naltrexone. For months or even years after they quit taking Buprenorphine/Naltrexone, some individuals have reported experiencing post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS).

The following are some of the most frequent symptoms associated with post-acute withdrawal:

  • Inability to feel pleasure
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Poor concentration
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability

Common Fears of Buprenorphine/Naltrexone Detox

Many people have pre-determined fears about Buprenorphine/Naltrexone detoxes. Buprenorphine/Naltrexone detox is not as dangerous as it may seem, and there are many options for treatment. Buprenorphine/Naltrexone abuse can be a serious problem that requires professional help to overcome; however, with the right support and Buprenorphine/Naltrexone rehab program or therapy sessions, you will begin feeling better in no time.

Some common fears are as follows:

1. I have tried to detox at home and was not able to succeed

At Windward Way Recovery, you will be in a controlled environment where a team of professionals will monitor your Buprenorphine/Naltrexone intake so that you do not have the chance to abuse it. However, if you are in the detox stage, Windward Way Recovery will use its experts to assist you on your journey to recovery. Talk with professionals who know how you feel and listen and support you free of judgment.

2. I will relapse after recovery, so what is the point?

The best way to avoid relapse is by using Buprenorphine/Naltrexone maintenance treatment (MMT) or an addiction treatment program that incorporates MMT for at least one year after you stop taking Buprenorphine/Naltrexone. Research suggests that this method can significantly reduce your risk of long-term side effects if you have been abusing opioids for over ten years before entering into Buprenorphine/Naltrexone maintenance treatment3https://www.bcpharmacists.org/Buprenorphine/Naltrexone-maintenance-treatment-mmt or addiction treatment program.

3. I will feel awful for months and maybe even years

While it is true that Buprenorphine/Naltrexone detox can take longer than other opiate withdrawals, with the help of professionals and monitoring of your particular situation, Windward Way Recovery will provide you with the best chance at being symptom free as quickly as possible.

  • Buprenorphine/Naltrexone detox can be safe with assistance from professionals who help you throughout your journey for support and guidance.

4. How can I ensure that I do not become addicted to Buprenorphine/Naltrexone?

While each individual is different, taking Buprenorphine/Naltrexone in a controlled and safe environment is the best way to ensure that you are not at risk of addiction.

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone detox can be safe with help from professionals who monitor your progress throughout the process for support and guidance.

5. Is Buprenorphine/Naltrexone the same as methamphetamine?

No, Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is a federally regulated prescription medication used as an analgesic for pain and as part of treatment programs to help individuals addicted to heroin or other opioids, stop the abuse.

Methamphetamine (meth) is a highly addictive stimulant; it can cause serious health problems such as heart problems and brain damage.

Meth has no medical purpose and should not be confused with Buprenorphine/Naltrexone!

How Can You Ease the Fear of Buprenorphine/Naltrexone Treatment?

You might use what you learn during treatment to reduce your anxiety. Try these techniques:

Deep breathing4https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/wellness/breathing-exercises has also been found to be relaxing. Sit in a chair with your back straight and your feet parallel on the floor. Place your hands just above your waist, where you would wear a belt. Breathe in slowly as you count to seven while keeping it for five seconds before exhaling again. As you practice this standard relaxation method, your body will eventually learn to enter deep breathing mode whenever you’re nervous or scared.

It’s an approach your therapist may teach you. It entails selecting a location, a focal point and physical relaxation.

Talk to people who are in the same boat as you. Attend 12-step programs. Listen to other individuals’ tales and then share your own when you’re ready.

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone Summary

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone is a great drug to help cure opioid addictions, but it can be abused and cause Buprenorphine/Naltrexone addiction.

If you do find yourself abusing Buprenorphine/Naltrexone or think you may have become addicted, there are many things you can do to overcome the addiction.

Buprenorphine/Naltrexone detox is a crucial step in overcoming Buprenorphine/Naltrexone abuse and becoming healthy again. It can take up to 20 days or more for Buprenorphine/Naltrexone effects to stop completely after your last dosage; however, Buprenorphine/Naltrexone withdrawal symptoms usually end within 14 days.

The first step in identifying if you need to seek professional help is aware of the symptoms and possible signs.

The second step is to accept the fact that you need help.

And the third step is to take action and commit to making yourself healthy again.

If you are looking for the best way to handle a Buprenorphine/Naltrexone addiction, reach out to our team of experts at Windward Way Recovery.

Surround yourself with experts who understand you and are there on your road to a better life.

  • 1
    https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682134.html
  • 2
    https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medication-assisted-treatment-mat#:~:text=There%20are%20three%20drugs%20approved,with%20counseling%20and%20psychosocial%20support.
  • 3
    https://www.bcpharmacists.org/Buprenorphine/Naltrexone-maintenance-treatment-mmt
  • 4
    https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/wellness/breathing-exercises