To understand the differences between methadone and Buprenorphine. Before the year 2000, for the treatment of opioid addiction was methadone Buprenorphine is a new drug which was approved by the FDA as an additional medicine to the treatment of opioid addiction. Methadone is a Schedule II substance, whereas Buprenorphine is a Schedule III substance. As per the approval of the FDA, Buprenorphine is an alternative kind of treatment alongside methadone. The most common kinds of Buprenorphine are Suboxone and Subutex.
Whatis the difference between Suboxone and Subutex?
One of the vital difference between Suboxone and Subutex is that Suboxone has the content of Naloxone, but this is absent in the Subutex. Naloxone is mixed with the Buprenorphine in order to prevent the misuse of the substance. Naloxone is a medicine which can reverse the opioid overdose. The substance will bind to the opioid receptors and can reverse or block the effects which are caused by opioids. It restores the normal respiration of the person who has slowed breathing as a result of an opioid overdose. Suboxone has both the content of Buprenorphine and Naloxone, whereas the Subutex has only the Buprenorphine.
Another one of the differences between Suboxone and Subutex is that the Subutex is taken in a tablet form which is placed and dissolved under the tongue. The Suboxone is made in a film strip and is taken in a swallowed or chewed form to lower the efficacy. This will avoid the creation of a high feeling. The process of using these tablets will slowly help in weaning off the illicit opioid abuse. Whilst avoiding some withdrawal discomfort, these drugs can substantially help in eliminating the cravings of opioids.
The central aspect to note is that the Subutex can lead to abuse as well as it does not contain Naloxone, which inhibits the feeling of high. This is why Suboxone is a much more preferred option. According to studies,Suboxone treatment after the detoxification period has a much lower rate of relapse because it reduces the craving for the opioids. Suboxone does not cause dependence and has minimal side effects.
Both the Suboxone and Subutex is given to people who are struggling with opioid addiction and helps in minimising their usage. There might be a few withdrawal symptoms, but the end product is worth the struggle. Detoxification improves not only health but also the overall quality of life.
