Zubsolv vs. Suboxone: Comparing MAT Medications

Both medications include two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone. These medications work together to reduce cravings for opioids during recovery, diminish the experience of opioid withdrawal symptoms, and decrease the risk of relapse and opioid overdose.

Either Zubsolv or Suboxone may be an effective part of a comprehensive addiction treatment program. Depending on the dosing needed for the specific individual, one or the other may be a better fit. If you have questions about Zubsolv or Suboxone for yourself or a loved one, speak with your doctor for clarification. 

Understanding Zubsolv & Suboxone

Zubsolv and Suboxone are very similar in terms of chemical makeup, safety profile, efficacy, and potential for misuse.[1,2]

Both contain buprenorphine and naloxone. Both may come with side effects like headache, nausea, insomnia, and other issues that usually fade as the body adjusts to the medication. 

Both Zubsolv and Suboxone have been proven to be effective in the treatment of opioid addiction.[3] Both have a low potential for misuse due to the inclusion of naloxone in each formulation, a medication that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids.[4]

In most cases, the choice comes down to preference, cost considerations, and the dictates of an individual’s health insurance coverage.[5]

How Does Zubsolv Work?

Zubsolv comes in the form of a sublingual tablet designed to dissolve under the tongue. Some users have reported that Zubsolv tastes more pleasant than Suboxone and is easier to use.[6] Zubsolv was approved for use shortly after Suboxone, and like Suboxone, it combines buprenorphine with naloxone. 

Buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, binds to opioid receptors in the brain taking the place of full opioid agonists like heroin or oxycodone. In so doing, it works to stave off withdrawal symptoms without creating a high in those who are physically dependent on opioids.[7]

Naloxone serves as a deterrent to the euphoric effects that can come with opioid use. It pushes people into precipitated opioid withdrawal if they take any opioids while Zubsolv is in their system.[8]

How Does Suboxone Work?

Suboxone works much like Zubsolv. Both medications contain buprenorphine and naloxone, so Suboxone also helps people through opioid detox and ongoing recovery by minimizing cravings and withdrawal symptoms and preventing overdose if relapse does occur. 

Suboxone, however, is available in both a film and tablet form that is designed to dissolve inside the cheek or under the tongue, respectively. It was approved for the treatment of opioid dependence first. As a result, many doctors prescribe Suboxone after a few days on buprenorphine when people seek outpatient MAT. 

Comparing Zubsolv & Suboxone 

While there are a number of similarities between Zubsolv and Suboxone, there are a few differences as well. The key difference is their bioavailability, which means that absorption efficiency in the body is a little different for each medication. 

Zubsolv has a slightly higher bioavailability. This means that lower doses of the drug can produce the same effect as higher doses of Suboxone. In most cases, this primarily impacts dosing choices made by the prescribing doctor. It can also potentially affect how a health insurance company might choose to cover the costs of the medication. 

This chart breaks down how Zubsolv and Suboxone compare:[1-5,9]

Does One Medication Have a Higher Abuse Potential?

No, one medication does not have a higher abuse potential than the other. Both Zubsolv and Suboxone contain naloxone, which subverts the euphoric effects of opioids. This ingredient reduces the potential for abuse of the buprenorphine within the medication.[4,8]

Choosing the Right Medication for Opioid Abuse & OUD

Both Zubsolv and Suboxone are effective choices when considering MAT for OUD, especially if the person would like to undertake treatment on an outpatient basis. 

There are a few more options in dosing for Zubsolv, so if a specific dose is required that Suboxone does not offer, Zubsolv may be the solution.[10]

If cost is a primary consideration due to a lack of insurance, underinsurance, or coverage by Medicaid, Suboxone may be the better choice. It is covered by Medicaid and also available in cheaper generic versions. 

It is important to work with a medical professional who is well-versed in addiction treatment when making any choices in medication. Supervision is needed throughout the treatment process, and other interventions will be needed for comprehensive treatment.[11] 

While medication can be an essential piece of the recovery process, it isn’t enough on its own. Therapy is also needed to address the root issues that led to opioid abuse.[12]