Suboxone is a branded medication specifically formulated to address opioid use disorders (OUD). It combines buprenorphine, an opioid partial agonist, with naloxone, an opioid antagonist. Since its approval in 2002 for treating OUD, the availability of Suboxone prescriptions has grown significantly. A study from 2011 revealed that 76% of Americans using opioids had accessed Suboxone without a valid prescription.
If you are utilizing Suboxone to manage opioid addiction while maintaining employment, it’s crucial to understand how long the medication remains in your system and how it is detected in drug screenings.
What Is Suboxone Prescribed For?
Suboxone, which contains buprenorphine and naloxone, is categorized as a partial opioid agonist. This means it interacts with the same brain receptors as other opioids but only activates them partially. Buprenorphine binds more tightly to these receptors compared to other opioids, helping to lessen cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms.
The inclusion of naloxone in Suboxone reduces its potential for misuse. If Suboxone is misused, such as being snorted or injected, naloxone counteracts the effects of opioids. When taken as directed, the naloxone component remains inactive in the stomach. Therefore, Suboxone is an effective treatment for OUD and is available in sublingual film or tablet forms.
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Onset of Suboxone Effects
Suboxone is administered either as a dissolvable film or a tablet that is placed under the tongue. It begins to take effect swiftly, typically within 30 to 60 minutes. Once ingested, Suboxone enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain, where it engages opioid receptors.
Duration of Suboxone’s Effects
The peak effect of Suboxone varies with the dosage—the higher the dose, the longer it takes to reach peak effectiveness. Generally, the peak can occur anywhere from one to over four hours after ingestion. The duration for which Suboxone remains active in the body depends on the specific formulation used.
Suboxone’s Half-Life
The half-life of a medication is the time it takes for the body to eliminate half of the drug from the bloodstream. Buprenorphine, the opioid component in Suboxone, has a lengthy half-life of 24 to 42 hours, significantly longer than most other opioids. In contrast, naloxone, the opioid antagonist, has a much shorter half-life of 30 to 60 minutes.
Detection of Suboxone in Drug Tests
Although Suboxone contains an opioid, buprenorphine, it is chemically different from other morphine-like opioids and typically does not appear on standard drug tests that screen for morphine, codeine, and heroin. Advanced opioid panels that test for substances like hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, and oxycodone may require specific tests to detect buprenorphine.
Urine Detection Window for Suboxone
Buprenorphine is metabolized into norbuprenorphine and is primarily excreted in feces (69%) and to a lesser extent in urine (about 30%). Due to the extended half-life of buprenorphine and its metabolite, they can be detected in urine for a longer period compared to some other opioids. Buprenorphine can be identified in urine for one to seven days, while norbuprenorphine can be detected for 1 to 14 days. Factors such as liver function can influence how long Suboxone remains detectable in urine, as Suboxone is metabolized in the liver.
Blood Detection Window
Buprenorphine is detectable in blood for approximately 26 to 42 hours. If the drug test includes detection of its metabolite norbuprenorphine, it can be identified for an extended period, ranging from 15 to 150 hours.
Hair Detection Window
Buprenorphine can be traced in hair samples for up to 90 days. However, hair testing is less common due to its higher cost and inconsistent interpretation of results.
Saliva Detection Window
In saliva, buprenorphine from Suboxone can be detected for up to three days after consumption. Saliva tests do not correlate directly with dosage levels, which may limit their effectiveness in certain contexts.
Factors Influencing Suboxone’s Duration in the Body
Several factors can affect how long Suboxone stays in your system:
- Age, Weight, and Genetics: Younger individuals with lower body weight or faster metabolisms tend to eliminate Suboxone more quickly.
- Dosage and Frequency: Higher doses or more frequent use of Suboxone can lead to accumulation in the body, prolonging its presence.
- Liver Function: Since the liver primarily metabolizes Suboxone, impaired liver function can slow down this process, causing the medication to stay in the system longer.
- Concurrent Medications: Other medications may interact with Suboxone, either speeding up or slowing down its metabolism.
Suboxone Withdrawal
Like other opioids, Suboxone can lead to physical dependence. The safest way to discontinue Suboxone is under the guidance of a healthcare provider or through a rehabilitation program. Typically, the dosage is gradually tapered to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Abrupt cessation or rapid dose reduction can result in withdrawal symptoms, which may include:
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Cold sweats
- Muscle aches
Withdrawal symptoms generally intensify within the first 72 hours and can last for over a month. Suboxone detoxification, although similar to other opioid detox processes, is usually milder due to buprenorphine’s long half-life. Comprehensive treatment for Suboxone withdrawal addresses both physical symptoms and psychological support to reduce the risk of relapse.
Suboxone Addiction
Suboxone is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act, indicating a potential for abuse despite its recognized medical use. Prescriptions for Suboxone must be issued by practitioners enrolled in specialized programs. Individuals using Suboxone for OUD are at risk of developing an addiction, especially as Suboxone has become available illicitly. It is sometimes misused to alleviate withdrawal symptoms from other opioids or by those without prior opioid use, increasing the risk of Suboxone dependency.
Treatment for Suboxone Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with Suboxone or other opioid addictions, reaching out for help is essential. The Recovery Village Salem offers compassionate support through comprehensive treatment programs tailored to your needs. Our services range from medical detox and inpatient care to outpatient programs and family support services. Our dedicated medical professionals are here to guide you towards a drug-free life. Begin your journey to recovery by contacting The Recovery Village Salem today.
