New Orleans Suboxone Withdrawal Treatment

Suboxone is a drug used to help individuals with opiate addiction. Although it is highly effective in reducing the cravings that often continue for a long period after treatment, it can cause its own problems. Suboxone withdrawal symptoms can occur when the individual stop using the medication. Withdrawal is also one of the symptoms of dependence on this drug. New Orleans Suboxone withdrawal treatment centers can provide a support structure while helping patients to better understand their motivations and learn new ways to cope with cravings, frustration and stress.

Find addiction treatment in New Orleans by contacting drug treatment centers. For more information about your treatment options, call (877) 804-1531.

What Is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a medication used in addiction treatment to help reduce cravings and allow patients to resume normal activities as they recover from opiate addiction. The medication contains buprenorphine, which provides feel-good chemicals in the brain, and naltrexone, which prevents opiates from locking into the receptors in the brain. However, suboxone withdrawal can occur when individuals try to stop using the drug. Withdrawal can last for several weeks.

Effects of Suboxone Use

Suboxone has a number of side effects, including headache, nausea and sweating. In some patients, taking it does not provide sufficient relief from cravings. It has a "ceiling effect" that prevents overdose, that is, taking too much of the drug will not increase the pleasurable effects. However, a number of overdoses have been reported with this medication. When patients attempt to stop taking suboxone on their own they may experience withdrawal symptoms similar to opiate withdrawal.

Dangers of Suboxone Abuse

Suboxone should be taken according to the physician's instruction to avoid unpleasant side effects. Drowsiness can occur from this medication, so the operation of machinery or driving should be done with care. Patients taking suboxone should check with their doctors before taking other medications. Dangerous side effects can occur when taking suboxone with benzodiazepines or other medication. Taking more than the prescribed amount can lead to seizures and death. Fatigue, dizziness, poor coordination and breathing problems are signs of abuse of the drug.

Suboxone Withdrawal

Withdrawal begins about 36 hours after the last dose and can continue for several weeks. Symptoms of withdrawal include:

• Muscle aches
• Dizziness
• Abdominal cramps
• Runny nose
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Chills
• Fatigue

Share your story. Call New Orleans drug detox centers today for help. You can also visit your local Narcotics Anonymous (http://www.usrecovery.info/NA/Louisiana.htm) for more support.