Understanding Safe and Effective Opioid Addiction Treatment: Suboxone and Narcan

Is it safe or effective to use Suboxone and Narcan in an unconventional way, such as squirting Narcan up your nostril and sublingual Suboxone to quit opiates? Let's explore the mechanisms behind these medications and what experts say about their proper use.

Suboxone and Its Components

Suboxone is a medication used to treat opioid addiction. It consists of two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that helps to reduce cravings by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain. Naloxone, on the other hand, is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of other opioids. This combination creates a safety feature, ensuring that if someone tries to inject Suboxone, the naloxone will block the high.

The Importance of Sublingual Administration

Suboxone is typically taken under the tongue (sublingually) to achieve the best results. Only about 10% of the naloxone is absorbed into the bloodstream this way. Taking Suboxone by nasal delivery or injection would bypass the gastrointestinal system, leading to significantly higher absorption. This would result in much higher levels of naloxone in the bloodstream, which could interfere with the effects of buprenorphine. As a partial agonist, buprenorphine needs to maintain a certain level in the system to effectively diminish cravings. If the naloxone levels are too high, it can block the buprenorphine from working properly.

Why Unconventional Methods Are Not Recommended

A medical professional would advise against using Suboxone and Narcan in ways other than what is prescribed. Squirting Narcan up a nostril or injecting it bypasses the intended delivery mechanism. Such methods could result in much higher and unpredictable levels of naloxone in the bloodstream, which could lead to serious side effects or even block the buprenorphine from working effectively.

Proper Use of Suboxone and Narcan

To start Suboxone treatment, it is typically initiated at the lowest dose possible to manage withdrawal symptoms. Over time, the dose may be increased incrementally if necessary, up to a certain ceiling effect where further increases in dosage provide no additional benefit. Suboxone tablets or films are taken only after a person has gone through opioid withdrawal and has been in abstinence for at least 24 to 72 hours.

Narcan, also known as naloxone, is used in emergencies to reverse opioid overdoses. It is not for ongoing maintenance in addiction treatment. Taking narcan in any way other than as prescribed, such as squirting it up the nose, could cause adverse reactions and ill health.

Seeking Help for Opioid Addiction

There are numerous ways to overcome opioid addiction. Options include methadone treatment, Suboxone therapy, and inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs. Additionally, therapy, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can be effective. The best course of action depends on the individual's needs and the severity of the addiction.

The path to sobriety is often challenging but manageable with the right resources and support. It is crucial to seek professional help and follow the guidance of healthcare professionals to ensure the safest and most effective treatment.