Suboxone: Understanding Side Effects & Addiction Treatment

Suboxone is a combination opioid and opioid-blocker drug used to help people withdraw from codeine, heroin and morphine addiction. The primary goals of this medication is to help suppress symptoms of opioid withdrawal and decrease drug cravings. This medication is potentially habit-forming and patients should be aware of other side effects.

Dependence

• Suboxone can cause dependence. It is believed that Suboxone is easier to stop taking than other more addictive opioid drugs. When individuals are ready to stop taking Suboxone, it should be done gradually to avoid symptoms of withdrawal.

Allergic Reactions

• Suboxone can cause swelling of the throat, lips or tongue; difficulty breathing; or hives in some individuals.

Respiratory Effects

• Breathing may become slow or shallow when taking Suboxone.

Motor Function

• Suboxone may induce confusion or dizziness.

Liver Effects

• Using Suboxone could result in yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. Urine may become dark and stools may be pale in color. The user may lose his appetite for several days.