Subutex is the brand name for buprenorphine and is approved in the U.S. to treat opiate addiction by preventing withdrawal symptoms from heroin and prescription painkillers such as OxyContin, Fentanyl and Codeine. It is intended for use at the beginning of drug addiction treatment. It comes in sublingual pills meant to be dissolved under the tongue. Based on its potential to be habit-forming and lead to dependence, the U.S. classifies Subutex as a Schedule III Controlled Substance. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist and chronic use can lead to opiate dependence and withdrawal once use is stopped abruptly. Use should be tapered gradually as part of a comprehensive treatment plan with input from a doctor.

The Problems with Replacement Opiate Therapy

Subutex and its sister drug, Suboxone, were approved in 2002 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and have made great strides in treating opiate addiction. Opiate replacement or maintenance therapy may be helpful for many in the withdrawal phase of treatment to help patients ease off of opiates. The problem is its potential for abuse and dependence, which may require a second detox. Without the appropriate medically-assisted treatment, trying to stop Subutex intake can increase the risk of relapse and painful withdrawal symptom which can include anxiety, diarrhea, fever, sneezing, runny nose, goose bumps, abnormal skin sensations, vomiting, nausea, pain, rigid muscles, rapid heartbeat, shivering, tremors, sweating and insomnia. Replacement therapy with Subutex can essentially switch out one addiction for another.

Addiction Can Lead to Numerous Personal and Physical Problems

Addiction is a progressive disease and can be fatal. Addiction can ruin lives, derail careers and destroy relationships. It can lead to legal trouble, estrangement among family members, depression, physical problems and death. Abuse and addiction are soaring among prescription drug users. The fear of experiencing withdrawal may keep some users using. Defense mechanisms they employ include denial and rationalization of their use and its resulting behavior. When it comes to going “cold turkey,” for many users, the success rates aren’t encouraging. But no one is ever too far gone. Many addiction experts say there is a better chance at long-term recovery if treatment is sought early.

Subutex Addiction Can Be Treated Successfully

Patients dependent upon Subutex can benefit from safe, confidential addiction treatment. Domus Retreat in southern California has a premiere Subutex detox program that has among the highest success rates in the industry. Domus offers a full-service alcohol and drug addiction treatment facility. The highly-regarded staff at Domus knows that patients do have power over their Subutex addiction. Domus Retreat will help you regain that power and restore the life you long to live. Subutex treatment, when done in a safe, medically-supervised way, can make all the difference to you and your loved ones.