Step-by-Step Guide on How to Effectively Take Suboxone

When used correctly, Suboxone can help to prevent relapse and overdose on opioid drugs and limit the experience of cravings and withdrawal symptoms during recovery from opioid addiction.[1] When used incorrectly, the naloxone component of the drug can be activated, causing the user to go into precipitated withdrawal, which is characterized by extreme opioid withdrawal symptoms.[2]

If you have questions about your Suboxone dose and how to take it, contact your prescribing doctor. If you are concerned that you are having an adverse reaction to your prescription, contact emergency medical help.

How to Properly Take Suboxone Depending on the Form Used

Suboxone is available for prescription in two forms: sublingual film strips and sublingual tablets.[3]

Both forms of the medication are designed to dissolve in the mouth—not to be swallowed. This aids in the faster absorption of the medication into the bloodstream. 

Suboxone Sublingual Film Strips

Suboxone sublingual film strips are dissolved by placing it under the tongue for up to 10 minutes until it is fully dissolved.[4]

Steps to Take Suboxone Sublingual Film

Follow these steps to safely take Suboxone film strips:

• Make sure your hands are dry before opening the package or touching the film.
• Open the package as directed right before you want to take the medication. 
• If you have been instructed to cut the film to manage your dose, do as your doctor ordered.[5]
• Place the film under the tongue.
• Allow the film to dissolve completely, which can take up to 10 minutes. 
• If you are taking supportive medications, take those as needed.[6]

Standard Doses of Suboxone Buccal Film

The dose of Suboxone taken each day will vary from person to person and according to their phase of treatment. Initially, doses generally start low and are adjusted as needed, ranging from 2 mg buprenorphine/0.5 mg naloxone to 12 mg buprenorphine/3 mg naloxone per day.[7]

Suboxone Sublingual Tablets

Suboxone sublingual tablets are similar in function and purpose to the sublingual film. They are also placed under the tongue to dissolve.[8]

How to Take Suboxone Sublingual Tablets

Follow these steps to effectively take Suboxone sublingual tablets:

• Before touching or taking the tablet, make sure your hands are clean and dry. 
• Put the tablet under your tongue, and allow it to dissolve completely without chewing or swallowing it. 
• If more than one tablet is needed for a dose, place all tablets under the tongue at one time or two tablets at a time if all won’t fit.
• The process of dissolution takes approximately four to eight minutes.

Standard Doses of Suboxone Sublingual Tablets

Like the film strips, the dosage for tablets is determined based on individual needs and where someone is in their process of recovery. In most cases, dosing starts with 2 mg buprenorphine/0.5 mg naloxone and is increased as needed.[9]

Tips for All Forms of Suboxone 

No matter what form of Suboxone you take, it is important to follow these steps: 

• Be consistent, and take the medication at the same time each day. 
• Avoid eating or drinking anything while you are waiting for the film or tablet to dissolve. 
• Do not alter the medication in any way, including attempts to crush and inject tablets.
• Communicate with your doctor about any issues or questions you may have or if you would like to adjust your dose. 

What to Expect When Starting Suboxone

When initiating Suboxone to manage an opioid use disorder and transition into active recovery, most people start by taking buprenorphine alone. Though buprenorphine is one of the active ingredients in Suboxone, the naloxone in the medication can make it a poor choice too early in the detox process. 

In most circumstances, the person is advised to wait about 24 hours after last opioid use before taking any medication. Then, they are advised to take buprenorphine alone before beginning a low dose of Suboxone.[10] 

This period of time is called the induction phase. It begins with a consultation and assessment and continues as the person stops taking their drug of choice and embarks on the medication regimen provided by their doctor. This process is tailored to each individual.

This chart breaks down what to expect as you begin to take Suboxone:[3-8,11]

Tips and Considerations When Taking Suboxone 

• Do not try to take Suboxone on your own even if you find that it is available on the street. It is important to follow the dosing schedule carefully and have medical supervision throughout the process. 

• Though Suboxone is available on an outpatient basis, it is not designed to be the sole source of support in recovery from opioid addiction. Therapy, alternative health measures, and lifestyle changes are recommended.[12]

• Even when you are stable in the maintenance phase of recovery, it is important to continue to check in regularly with the prescribing physician and share any questions, concerns, or requests to alter the dose. 

• If side effects become an issue at any point, especially if your health status changes and you are diagnosed with a co-occurring medical condition or new medications, check in with your prescribing physician.[13]

Starting a Suboxone regimen is a big step in recovery and a great way to transition out of active opioid abuse. A comprehensive medication-assisted treatment (MAT) plan can help to reduce the risk of death due to opioid overdose or accident while under the influence. 

If you have questions about your dose or your experience with Suboxone, reach out to your doctor. If you don’t have a prescription for Suboxone, reach out for help today.