Suboxone is a medicine prescribed to treat opioid use disorder. But in recent times, it has gained a poor reputation for contributing to severe side effects, such as dental damage and decay. Many patients have had to undergo costly dental repair surgery to treat the gum and tooth issues they faced. But the side effects aren’t just limited to physical symptoms. It affects the mind as well, which makes it challenging for patients to cope. In this article, we will discuss how Suboxone affects the mind and how to manage the symptoms of withdrawal.
Why Do Patients Stop Using Suboxone?
In recent times, patients who’ve used Suboxone have mostly complained about dental health challenges. In January 2024, AboutLawsuits.com shared the story of Christine Edwards from Maine and her suffering with this drug. She was suggested to use the Suboxone film to treat her opioid addiction, which she developed while treating her chronic pain. Edwards faced acute dental issues because of this medicine.
In her Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit, she mentioned that neither her doctor nor she was aware of the side effects of this medicine. It also stated that the extremely acidic nature of the drug breaks down the natural enamel and leads to tooth decay over time. The lawsuit further mentions that she could have avoided dental erosion if the manufacturer had alerted people of the probable health hazards.
However, it was only in 2022 that the FDA added a warning label that using Suboxone can result in loss of teeth, tooth decay, cavities, and oral infections. Even when a person has no history of dental issues, they can face such problems. Hence, patients tend to stop using this medicine over time. Other negative side effects may include:
- Blurred vision
- Irregular menstruation
- A fast heartbeat
- Difficulty breathing
- Muscle stiffness
These concerns may cause some patients to discontinue therapy, which may in turn lead to withdrawal symptoms.
TruLaw states that if you face severe dental health problems because of Suboxone, it is necessary to file a legal complaint. It is highly recommended that you consult a lawyer rather than walk the legal path alone. An experienced lawyer can examine your case and provide you with the legal guidance you need.
If your lawyer thinks you have substantial medical evidence, he or she will likely develop a strong case and present it in court in your behalf. This is crucial in helping you get fairly compensated for your pain and suffering and ensure you have the funds you need to cover your dental and medical expenses.
Psychological Symptoms of Suboxone Withdrawal
If you’ve used any medicine for a long time and have pressed pause on it, you will have a few withdrawal symptoms. The same applies to Suboxone. The physical symptoms, such as pain and body aches, typically start 72 hours after your last dose.
After two weeks, you will start feeling the psychological symptoms which can last for a month. Three significant ones include:
Depression and Anxiety
In an acute withdrawal phase, individuals can experience bouts of depression and anxiety that can become highly intense. This can make it challenging for you to carry out daily chores. A general lack of energy and motivation may become an issue that hinders you from reaching your personal and professional goals. These episodes of depression and/or anxiety may last for several weeks depending on your mental make-up and other factors, such as your ability to cope, face your fears, and pre-existing conditions like GAD (General anxiety disorder).
Mood Swings and Irritability
Mood swings and irritability are very common symptoms when you stop your Suboxone dosage. You might find that you get irritated easily and have difficulty controlling your temper, even when dealing with minor problems. All these symptoms can be very challenging to manage. However, if you don’t address these mood issues quickly and thoroughly, they may have a significant negative impact on your everyday interactions with people at work and at home. Your intimate relationships and your sex life may also be adversely affected.
Trouble Concentrating
Not being able to concentrate is a common symptom of Suboxone withdrawal. A lack of focus will make it difficult for you to remember subtle steps you need to take in order to complete assigned tasks. Concentration issues can also affect the way you interact with the people around you. It can also be challenging to manage all of your symptoms as you are not thinking with the same logic and coherence that you typically do.
How to Manage the Symptoms
Correct management of Suboxone withdrawal is necessary to minimize physical and psychological symptoms. If not managed properly, these issues will likely impact your quality of life. Some symptoms such as anxiety and irritability may also become worse over time if they are not addressed. Some of the best ways to manage Suboxone withdrawal are:
Being Careful With Your Dose Tapering Schedule
Talk to your doctor about setting up a dose tapering schedule for Suboxone that is right for you. If you have been using Suboxone without a prescription or medical supervision, it is crucial that you consult a medical professional immediately. A sudden drop in Suboxone intake or overdosing on Suboxone may cause very serious health issues or death.
Making a Few Lifestyle Changes
During your withdrawal phase, it is important that you drink enough fluids so that you aren’t dehydrated. You should also consume a well-balanced diet so that your electrolyte and vitamin levels are in balance. You can also consult your doctor, physical therapist, or counselor to find new strategies to improve and maintain your physical and mental health.
Another way to manage withdrawal symptoms is to engage in activities you find relaxing. This may include meditation, doing breathing exercises, and listening to music. Engaging in regular physical exercise is also highly recommended. These healthy lifestyle adjustments can help to reduce anxiety, stress and depression.
Taking the Correct Withdrawal Medicine
Always talk to a licensed doctor before taking any medication. According to the FDA, Lucemyra (lofexidine hydrochloride) is a non-opioid medication given to treat withdrawal symptoms. It works by curbing the release of norepinephrine, which is a neurotransmitter that contributes to withdrawal symptoms.
Since Lucemyra doesn’t have an opioid agonist, the treatment can start as soon as you have the last Suboxone dose. Currently, the medicine has been approved for treating healthy adults for 14 days after opioid cessation.
If not properly managed, Suboxone can affect your health negatively. Other than dental health issues, there may be additional side effects and withdrawal symptoms to contend with as well. Use the guidelines above and speak with your doctor to see if Suboxone is right for you.
