Suboxone is an FDA-approved medication intended for opioid dependence treatment. The medication works to decrease the severity of withdrawal symptoms from opioids and reduce a patient’s dependence on opioids in the long term.
The medication is a combination of two different drugs: buprenorphine and naloxone. However, it is more commonly known by its brand name: Suboxone.
It’s extremely important to seek assistance and supervision from a qualified physician while using Suboxone.
In this article, we’ll explain the role of a Suboxone doctor, as well as how you can access one nearest to you.
Understanding the Role of a Suboxone Doctor
Special Training And Certification For Prescribing Suboxone
Unlike other medications used for Opioid addiction, Suboxone can be prescribed by your primary health care provider. Most other medications require prescriptions from a specialized treatment center.
To prescribe Suboxone, doctors must undergo special training.
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) funds a clinical support system that equips doctors with the tools, information, and technical assistance needed for treating substance use disorders.
Monitoring Patient Health And Progress During Treatment
A qualified doctor will monitor your health and progress closely during Suboxone treatment. This includes an assessment of your stability, physical withdrawal symptoms, mental health, and behavioral changes.
Your provider will give you extensive instructions on how to administer doses and what to expect.
At the beginning of treatment, you’ll likely meet with them on most days. The frequency of visits will then slowly reduce as your stability allows.
Addressing Potential Side Effects And Complications
Like with any other medication, your doctor will inform you of the potential side effects of Suboxone before use.
The most common side effects include insomnia, constipation, nausea, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, sweating, and headaches.
Your doctor can advise you on options to manage your pain or deal with unpleasant side effects. Additionally, your doctor can determine whether your dose needs to be adjusted; it’s important to take the medication exactly as your doctor advises!
You may also be prescribed naloxone, a medication for emergency use in case of opioid overdose.
In the case of complications with Suboxone, more frequent visits with your doctor will occur, and your dose or prescription intervals may be adjusted.
Furthermore, your doctor can refer you to counseling, other support services, or a higher level of care if deemed appropriate.
Finding Suboxone Doctors in Your Area
SAMHSA Treatment Locator
SAMHSA provides confidential information services and treatment referrals. The national helpline, 1-800-662-HELP, is available 24/7 and is free of charge.
FindTreatment is a confidential resource that can help you locate a substance use treatment facility near you. Get in touch with one of the recommended nearby clinics, and ask about Suboxone availability.
Furthermore, SAMHSA’s Practitioner Locator feature can help you to find an authorized practitioner who can prescribe Suboxone.
Call Your Insurance Provider
Suboxone treatment may be covered by your insurance provider. Suboxone doctors and clinics accept many forms of health insurance which may fully or partially cover the cost of treatment.
Therefore, it’s recommended you contact your insurance provider to see what assistance you can receive. Click here to check the coverage that is available to you!
Consult Your Primary Healthcare Provider
As Suboxone can be prescribed by any doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who is trained and qualified, your primary or family doctor may be able to prescribe the medication for you.
Consult with your primary healthcare provider to check if they are appropriately trained and willing to prescribe the medication for you.
Depending on the severity and circumstances of your situation, you may wish to consider specialized treatment options and facilities for the prescription and monitoring of Suboxone.
Explore Telehealth Treatment
Before 2020, in-person prescriptions were needed to access Suboxone treatment. However, the pandemic led to telehealth developments.
Telehealth tools allow you to manage your health care and receive services through digital information and communication technologies.
Ask your primary healthcare provider about telehealth options to determine whether this option may benefit your treatment and recovery.
Preparing for Your First Visit
What to Bring
Your first appointment with a Suboxone provider is essentially a conversation about whether or not this medication is appropriate for you.
Therefore, it’s important you bring as much information as you can, such as a list of your medical history, any prior treatments, and current medications in order to simplify the process.
Setting expectations
A qualified and reputable doctor will establish trust in your relationship, as well as provide a non-judgemental, welcoming, and motivational environment.
Your provider is there to assist you through the process, so it’s important that you are honest and open so that the treatment can be effective!
This ensures you will be given the right dose, supervision, and support, and ensures you won’t miss any important steps.
Maintaining honesty and establishing trust with your provider can make the process easier and help you to feel supported.
An initial screening will take place to determine whether Suboxone is right for you.
Your provider will consider your past and current substance use, physical and mental health, and social history. They may also review your living situation, insurance, safety, and goals.
An induction phase will occur in the medical office or in your own home, in which the first doses of Suboxone are administered under close supervision.
Your initial response to the medication will be assessed, and a follow-up plan will be established. A target dose will eventually be determined, which is the dose that eliminates cravings and withdrawals while keeping side effects minimal.
In Summary
The decision to take control of your life and recover from opioid addiction is brave and truly admirable. The path to healing addiction may be challenging, yet the outcome is worth it.
Seeking assistance and support from a qualified provider is essential! Not only is this a legal requirement, but qualified providers are trained to ensure that treatment is effective, as well as to provide proper support to make your journey easier.
