Suboxone is a prescription medication often used to help people recover from opioid addiction. It contains two main ingredientsโbuprenorphine and naloxoneโthat work together to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. While Suboxone is a powerful tool in recovery, some people eventually decide they are ready to stop taking it.
If youโre thinking about stopping Suboxone, itโs important to do it safely. Quitting suddenly, also called going โcold turkey,โ can lead to uncomfortable and sometimes serious withdrawal symptoms. This guide explains how to get through Suboxone withdrawal safely, what to expect, and where to get help.
Understanding Suboxone Withdrawal
Suboxone withdrawal happens when your body adjusts to not having the medication anymore. Buprenorphine is a long-acting partial opioid, which means withdrawal is usually less intense than other opioids but can last longer. The goal is not to suffer through it but to manage symptoms in a way that keeps you safe and comfortable.
Common Suboxone Withdrawal Symptoms:
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Anxiety or mood swings
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating or chills
- Insomnia
- Cramping or diarrhea
These symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on factors like how long youโve been on Suboxone, your dose, and whether you stop suddenly or taper gradually.
What Is the Suboxone Withdrawal Timeline?
Suboxone withdrawal does not hit all at once. Because buprenorphine stays in your body longer than many opioids, symptoms may not start until 24 to 72 hours after your last dose.
- Days 1-3: Early symptoms start like anxiety, sweating, restlessness, and mild aches.
- Days 4-7: Symptoms typically reach their peak. This is when stomach issues, body aches, insomnia, and mood swings are the strongest.
- Week 2: Physical symptoms begin to improve, but mental health symptoms like anxiety, depression, or cravings may continue.
- Weeks 3-4 and beyond: Many people report lingering fatigue, mood changes, and sleep issues. These gradually improve over time with the proper support.
Tapering Suboxone: The Safer Way to Quit
The safest and most effective way to stop Suboxone is by following a tapering schedule, which means gradually lowering your dose over time to help your body adjust. Quitting cold turkey can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and a higher risk of relapse. A medically supervised taper not only reduces the intensity of withdrawal but also supports your physical and mental health throughout the process. It gives you time to develop coping skills, engage in supportive therapy, and prepare for life after Suboxone. Every tapering plan is unique. Some people taper over several weeks, while others may need months. A doctor or addiction specialist will design a personalized plan tailored to your individual needs.
How to Manage Suboxone Withdrawal Comfortably
There are many ways to make Suboxone withdrawal more manageable. The key is having the right tools and support.
Suboxone Detox Help Can Include:
- Medical Supervision: Doctors can monitor your health, provide medications to relieve symptoms, and adjust your taper as needed.
- Supportive Therapy: Counseling helps address emotional struggles like anxiety, depression, and cravings during withdrawal.
- Holistic Care: Options such as massage, meditation, yoga, and nutrition support your body and mind during detoxification.
- Comfort Medications: Non-addictive medications can ease issues like nausea, insomnia, pain, or anxiety.
- Structured Environment: An inpatient or outpatient detox program keeps you focused on recovery, eliminating distractions and temptations.
Itโs essential to remember that withdrawal is a temporary condition. The discomfort you may feel during detox will pass, and you will start to feel stronger with each passing day.
Donโt Do This AloneโGet Help Today
Knowing how to get through Suboxone withdrawal safely starts with getting the right help. Trying to detox at home without support can be dangerous and overwhelming. At Rockland Recovery in Braintree, MA, we offer expert care designed to help you taper off Suboxone with as little discomfort as possible. Our team provides medical detox support, therapy, and long-term recovery tools tailored to your needs.
If you or someone you love is ready to take the next step, donโt wait. Call Rockland Recovery today or visit our center to learn more about our Suboxone detox programs. You donโt have to face this aloneโwe are here to help you heal and reclaim your life.
Resources
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6591066/