A generic version of Suboxone® called Buprenorphine and Naloxone is now available. This is a very positive development in medication-assisted treatment of opioid addiction. Buprenorphine and Naloxone is appropriate for maintaining treatment of patients who have a dependence on an opioid drug. It can be prescribed for patients who have previously received treatment with buprenorphine sublingual tablets.
Prolonged use of narcotic medications can lead to mental and/or physical addiction. When a physical dependence has developed, severe withdrawal effects can occur if the user suddenly stops using the drug. By switching from the addictive drug to the combination medication Buprenorphine and Naloxone, the individual may be able to avoid the side effects of quitting use of the addictive drug without treatment with a substitute drug. The prescribed substitute engages the body’s central nervous system, to help reduce or prevent side effects of withdrawal from the opioid.
With the recent FDA approval of Buprenorphine and Naloxone, this generic Suboxone may increase access to treatment for many opioid addicted people with fewer economic resources.
What is Buprenophine/ Naloxone?
Buprenorphine and Naloxone is an FDA-approved generic substitute for Suboxone. As a generic drug, Buprenorphine and Naloxone provides the same manufacturing quality and the same effectiveness in opioid addiction treatment as Suboxone, as well as reduced cost.
Buprenorphine is an ingredient of Suboxone that attaches to the opioid receptors, thereby blocking other opioids from attaching to the same receptors and rendering them ineffective. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which mean that it does cause a partial degree of the high effects that opioids cause, which helps to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Naloxone is an ingredient in Suboxone that blocks opioid receptors that opioids have activated. For people who are dependent on opioids, naloxone, as a full opioid antagonist, can trigger withdrawal symptoms.
Buprenorphine and Naloxone is manufactured in several dosage strengths.
How is it Used?
Buprenorphine and Naloxone should be prescribed as a component of a comprehensive opioid addiction treatment program, along with appropriate addiction counseling and recommended support.
Buprenorphine and Naloxone is manufactured in sublingual tablet and sublingual film. The sublingual tablet or film is administered by placing it under the tongue.
What are the Side Effects?
Users of Buprenorphine and Naloxone may experience one or more of the following side effects. There are various degrees of severity of potential side effects. Some of the more common side effects typically do not require medical attention, and they may disappear as the patient becomes adjusted to the medication.
Your healthcare provider may be able to help you lessen or avoid some side effects. Contact your doctor if you any of the side effects listed below persists over time or is significant enough to bother you.
