How Long Does Withdrawal From Suboxone Last?

Understanding Suboxone Withdrawal:

• Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD).
• Suboxone is an opioid, and suddenly stopping it can cause withdrawal symptoms.
• Doctors may recommend tapering the dose gradually to reduce withdrawal effects.

Duration of Suboxone Withdrawal:

• Withdrawal symptoms generally last about a week, up to 10 days.
• Muscle aches and joint pain usually subside after 72 hours.
• Restlessness and anxiety may persist for a week.
• Physical cold-like symptoms, like a runny nose, usually disappear after 10 days.
• Feelings of general discomfort and opioid cravings may linger for months.

Symptoms of Suboxone Withdrawal:

Physical Symptoms:

• Chills, goosebumps, muscle aches, and pains.
• Nausea, vomiting, runny nose, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and sweating.
• Tremors, twitching, and teary eyes.

Psychological Symptoms:

• Anxiety, depression, and restlessness.

Withdrawal can also trigger dormant mental health issues like anxiety and depression and cause guilt, regret, and difficulty regaining life balance, leading to emotional exhaustion.

Suboxone Withdrawal Timeline:

• Withdrawal symptoms usually start within 2-4 days of the last dose.
• Symptoms peak around days 3-5 and resolve within seven days.
• Psychological symptoms, such as depression and an inability to feel pleasure, may persist for weeks.

Coping with Suboxone Withdrawal:

• Work with a doctor to taper the Suboxone dose gradually over time.
• Tapering schedules typically take place over 7-28 days.
• Unsuccessful attempts to quit can be discouraging, so it's best to consult a doctor for a proper tapering plan.
• Additional support medications may be recommended if withdrawal symptoms persist despite tapering.
• Lifestyle changes like drinking fluids, eating a balanced diet, and practicing relaxation techniques can help manage withdrawal symptoms.

Relapse Potential:

• The biggest risk after Suboxone withdrawal is the chance of relapse, common among people with OUD.
• Relapsing after tolerance has decreased can lead to a dangerous or fatal opioid overdose.

Quitting Suboxone During Pregnancy:

• Consult a doctor if quitting Suboxone during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Suboxone is not recommended during pregnancy, but buprenorphine without naltrexone is.
• Accelerated tapering or switching to buprenorphine/methadone may be advised.

Long-Term Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder:

• Suboxone allows for developing a long-term treatment strategy without withdrawal discomfort.
• Long-term treatment should focus on preventing relapse.
• Talk therapy is crucial in relapse prevention, helping identify triggers and negative thought patterns leading to poor decisions.
• Combining talk therapy with medication management is more effective in treating opioid addiction than medication alone.
• Explore various talk therapy options, including one-on-one sessions, group therapy programs, and addiction treatment facilities.