The opioid crisis continues to impact millions worldwide. Unfortunately, increased prescriptions of these medications have led to widespread misuse and abuse. And it’s undeniable: Addiction can tear families apart. It can sever relationships. It can even end lives. However, with the right help, it’s entirely possible to overcome an opioid addiction.
For opioid use disorder (OUD)—the chronic misuse of opioids—there are various medication-assisted treatments and support available. Suboxone and Methadone are commonly prescribed for medication-assisted treatment for addiction. This article explores these two medications in more detail, outlining their difference, side effects, and more.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone consists of buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist; this means it stimulates the opioid receptors. As such, it can help ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Since it binds to opioid receptors, it can also help prevent opioid overdoses.
Meanwhile, naloxone is an opioid antagonist—which means it reduces the ability of opioids to attach to corresponding receptors. Yet, taken sublingually (which Suboxone is meant for) means this ingredient is inactive. It only becomes active when taken incorrectly via injection. In turn, it can help prevent overdosing due to injections, and despite Suboxone being an opioid, it has a lower potential for abuse. This makes this medication suitable for outpatient programs, helping individuals overcome addiction while getting their lives back on track.
What is Methadone?
Similar to Suboxone, Methadone also acts on the opioid receptors. However, this drug is actually a full opioid agonist. At the same time, Methadone doesn’t give way to the same high as other opioids. Thus, it can help ease withdrawal symptoms—the main reason many return to using opioids—without the feelings of euphoria.
Because Methadone binds to the same opioid receptors, it can also help reduce the risk of overdosing and decrease the effects of other opioids. Multiple studies show that Methadone can be effective for treating opioid and heroin addiction and even decrease risk-taking behaviors (such as sharing needles).
Often, this means Methadone is highly effective and usually used for severe addiction. Yet, due to its higher potential for abuse, it’s frequently prescribed under clinical supervision, differing from Suboxone. Methadone withdrawal can also occur when abruptly stopped, which is also why it’s best used under medical supervision.
Methadone and Suboxone Side Effects
The side effects of these two medications are very similar. They may include:
- Overdosing: Surprisingly, it is possible to overdose on both Methadone and Suboxone. This is especially true if they are combined with alcohol, sedatives, or other opioids.
- Dependence: Since both these medications are opioids, it is possible to develop a physical dependency.
- Irregular heart rhythms: Opioids often run the risk of irregular heartbeats.
- Other physical symptoms: Other effects of both medications may include nausea, headaches, dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, trouble concentrating, or sexual issues.
It’s also worth noting that Methadone may have flexible dosing when compared to Suboxone. Suboxone often requires higher doses, which could increase some of the risks or side effects outlined above.
Suddenly halting these medications may also result in withdrawal, which could include the following symptoms:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Rapid heart rate
Other Risks
While your doctor should be informed about other medications you’re taking, it’s worthwhile to know that Methadone and Suboxone can have various interactions with other drugs.
Some medications may even increase the effects of Methadone, such as:
- Benzodiazepines (including Xanax and Valium)
- Alcohol
- Fluconazole (used commonly for yeast infections)
- Ciprofloxacin
- Fluoxetine
Others can hinder its effects, including phenobarbital, carbamazepine, and more.
Meanwhile, the risk of overdosing on Suboxone increases when combined with:
- Methadone
- Alcohol
- Sedatives
- Hypnotics
- Antihistamines
Individuals with dementia, head trauma, or other diseases impacting the central nervous system should also not take Methadone or Suboxone.
Conclusion
When it comes to Suboxone vs Methadone, they are both medications for treating opioid use disorders (OUD). However, when they are used may vary, often depending on the individual and their specific situation or addiction.
Both medications also have their side effects. For instance, Suboxone is more likely to be used in outpatient treatments but is also more likely to cause nausea, insomnia, and trouble focusing. Meanwhile, Methadone may be better for closely monitored treatment, such as for inpatient care. Yet, it’s more likely to cause sexual reproductive side effects, drowsiness, and sweating.
Ultimately, your healthcare provider will determine the best option for your needs. At the end of the day, seeking out the care and support you need to overcome addiction takes courage. But it’s a decision that can pave the way toward the rest of your life and a vibrant and fulfilling future. Recovery from opioid addiction is possible; it just requires you to take that very first step.
