Suboxone is a trade name that was once considered a beacon of hope for the treatment of opioid use disorders. However, a great percentage of these users have, over the years, expressed serious concerns, especially about the film version of the drug.
Turns out, according to the FDA, there are side effects to watch out for and precautions to adhere to. As a result, people are filing Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits against the drug manufacturer, Indivior, for failing to adequately warn the public about the adverse effects of the medication.
You can visit blogs like Lawsuit Legal News to learn more about the drug and the lawsuit. They have been covering the issues since the start.
In this post, we will discuss the benefits this drug brings to the table and the problems associated with it.
How It Works
Generally, the Suboxone medication is to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and curb cravings for opioids. Suboxone combines buprenorphine and naloxone as its primary ingredients for the treatment of opioid use disorders. On one hand, buprenorphine is a narcotic that activates opioid receptors in the brain, tricking the brain into thinking that a full agonist like oxycodone or heroin has been taken.
On the other hand, the presence of naloxone blocks opioid receptors and discourages misuse in injectable form. It helps to block the effects of opioids and precipitate withdrawal if Suboxone is misused.
Uses of Suboxone
Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder
One of the primary uses of Suboxone is in the treatment of opioid addiction. It’s used to reverse the side effects of short-acting opioids such as heroin. It is recommended for adults and children over 15 years of age. When used as directed by a qualified physician, research has proven this medication to be effective in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, helping individuals to abstain from illicit opioid use.
Pain Management
Sometimes, Suboxone is used off-label for pain management. Recent research suggests it shows promise when used to manage pain. Although not approved by the FDA, it is prescribed by some healthcare providers to manage chronic pain in certain situations.
Opioid receptors are known to manage pain sensations in the body; therefore, activating them could provide relief from pain. However, there are concerns about the drug being abused during this use. It should be limited to use by patients with opioid use disorders.
Problems Associated with Suboxone
There is no doubt that Suboxone packs a lot of amazing benefits, but it is not without its problems.
- One of the main concerns with Suboxone is the potential for misuse and addiction. Since it is an opiate itself, Suboxone can be abused, either by taking higher doses than prescribed or by using it in ways other than intended, such as crushing and snorting the tablets to achieve a faster and stronger high. This misuse can lead to dependence and addiction, negating the intended benefits of the medication.
- Additionally, Suboxone can cause side effects ranging from mild to severe. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, headaches, and dizziness. More serious adverse effects may include respiratory depression, especially when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.
- Another issue surrounding Suboxone is the tight regulations governing its prescribing and distribution. Because of its potential for abuse, Suboxone is classified as a controlled substance, meaning that healthcare providers must undergo special training and obtain a waiver to prescribe it. This can create barriers to access for individuals seeking treatment for opioid addiction.
Despite these challenges, there are strategies in place to help minimize the problems that come with Suboxone use. Patient education and counseling help to ensure that users understand how to safely and responsibly take the medication. Monitoring and regulation measures can also be carried out by healthcare providers to prevent misuse and diversion.
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