Suboxone, a prescribed drug, combines buprenorphine (a partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (an opioid antagonist). It’s officially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treating opioid use disorder (OUD), but not for pain management.
Nevertheless, Suboxone is frequently used “off-label” for pain relief. This practice is common in the U.S., where many medications are used for purposes not specifically approved by the FDA. For instance, some diabetes drugs approved for diabetes are also used off-label for weight loss.
Suboxone’s primary purpose is addiction treatment, but its off-label use includes pain management. It’s a viable option for some individuals, but not suitable for everyone. Understanding how Suboxone works can facilitate informed discussions with healthcare providers.
Suboxone’s Role in Pain Relief
Buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, initially received approval in a patch form (Butrans) for chronic pain. Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, was later developed for OUD. However, its potential as a safer alternative to full opioids like oxycodone for pain relief has been recognized.
Suboxone is effective for:
- Chronic pain: Persistent pain, different from acute pain caused by surgery or injury.
- Addiction: In cases of OUD, traditional opioids may be less effective.
How Suboxone Addresses Chronic Pain
Buprenorphine blocks pain for about six to eight hours and has a lower misuse risk than other opioids. It’s a partial rather than a full agonist at opioid receptors.
Two buprenorphine-based medications approved for chronic pain are:
- Belbuca: A buccal strip absorbed through the cheek, taken once or twice daily.
- Butrans: A transdermal patch for chronic pain, changed weekly.
Suboxone, though not exclusively approved for pain, is used off-label for this purpose due to its perceived safety compared to full opioid agonists.
When to Consider Suboxone for Pain Management
Suboxone requires a prescription. It’s considered for patients with:
- Chronic pain lasting over a month.
- A history of drug misuse or dependency.
- Responsiveness to buprenorphine.
If you have chronic pain and a history of addiction, Suboxone might be a good option. Consult your doctor for advice.
Effectiveness of Suboxone in Treating Pain
Buprenorphine in Suboxone can provide relief for chronic pain. Pain varies by individual, and Suboxone may be a beneficial option if other treatments haven’t worked. It can also provide some pain relief for those treated for OUD.
Dosage of Suboxone for Pain Relief
Though not officially approved for chronic pain, Suboxone is used for this indication. Dosage for pain might differ from that for OUD treatment. Patients may require more frequent dosing for pain relief.
Acquiring Suboxone for Chronic Pain
Suboxone is a controlled substance, available by prescription only via our online or in person visits. Illicit purchase risks contamination with substances like fentanyl, which can be dangerous. Consult your doctor about legal and safe ways to obtain Suboxone for pain management.