Suboxone is a medication mainly prescribed for opioid dependence treatment, combining buprenorphine (a partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (an opioid antagonist). The medication works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain to reduce cravings, and eliminating the sought-after effects of opioid use. While designed to be taken as a film or tablet, some people attempt to misuse this medication through alternative routes, including smoking.
This page examines the practice of smoking Suboxone, the associated risks, and key considerations for those prescribed this medication or concerned about its misuse. We’ll explore the pharmacology of Suboxone, why some people attempt to smoke it, and the medical consequences of such misuse.
Suboxone Abuse
Suboxone is an effective MAT (medication-assisted treatment) option for individuals recovering from opioid dependence [1]. When taken as prescribed by being dissolved under the tongue, it helps reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings while blocking the euphoric effects of other opioids. The combination of buprenorphine and naloxone is specifically designed to discourage misuse by blocking opioid receptors in the brain. Buprenorphine provides moderate opioid effects to prevent withdrawal, while naloxone remains relatively inactive when taken sublingually. However, when misused through methods like smoking, injection, or snorting, the naloxone component activates more strongly, potentially triggering withdrawal rather than producing a high [2]. Despite these built-in deterrents, some people still attempt to misuse Suboxone [3]. Common motivations include attempting to intensify the medication’s effects, self-medication for withdrawal symptoms when proper doses aren’t available, or diversion to others who don’t have a prescription.Can You Smoke Suboxone?
While smoking suboxone is physically possible, it is very unsafe and completely removes the therapeutic benefits. When heated, the medication’s chemical structure degrades, potentially creating toxic byproducts that can damage the respiratory system. Beyond this, smoking activates the naloxone component more quickly, which can trigger immediate and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals. The films or tablets containing Suboxone aren’t designed for inhalation and contain various inactive ingredients that can cause respiratory irritation, lung damage, and even chemical pneumonitis when smoked. Medical literature documents cases of individuals experiencing severe respiratory distress after attempting to smoke Suboxone products [4]. Additionally, the binder materials in these medications can leave residues in the lungs that may accumulate over time, potentially leading to chronic pulmonary conditions. The practice offers no medical benefit and introduces risks not present with proper sublingual administration. When individuals attempt smoking Suboxone, some try to heat the strips on aluminum foil and inhale the resulting vapor, while others attempt to crush the tablets and mix them with smoking substances. Both approaches alter the medication’s pharmacological properties and intended delivery mechanism. The buprenorphine (a partial opioid agonist) in Suboxone has relatively low bioavailability when smoked. This means that smoking wastes a significant portion of the medication while introducing unnecessary risks. The heat-sensitive components also break down unpredictably, forming compounds with unknown effects on the body. Do people abuse Suboxone through smoking despite these inefficiencies? Unfortunately, yes. Smoking Suboxone occurs among those seeking to:- Accelerate the onset of effects (although these are often diminished).
- Attempt to bypass the abuse-deterrent mechanisms built into the medication.
- Mimic familiar administration routes from previous substance use patterns.
Legal and Treatment Implications
Misusing prescription medications like Suboxone can carry legal consequences. While the medication itself is legal with a valid prescription, using it in ways other than prescribed might constitute misuse under various state and federal regulations. Smoking Suboxone may also violate treatment agreements that many providers require individuals to sign, sometimes resulting in the discontinuation of care. For treatment providers, evidence of Suboxone misuse often calls for a reassessment of the person’s recovery plan. This might include more frequent monitoring, counseling interventions, or consideration of alternative treatment approaches. The goal is to support recovery while ensuring medication safety and appropriate use.Safe and Effective Suboxone Use
Suboxone remains an essential tool in addressing opioid use disorder when used as directed. The medication works best when:- Taken exactly as prescribed, typically as a sublingual film or tablet.
- Used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling or therapy.
- Monitored regularly by healthcare providers with dosage adjustments as needed.
- Accompanied by honest communication about challenges, cravings, or concerns.
Can You Smoke Suboxone FAQs
What can you not do while on Suboxone?
While on Suboxone, you should not take other opioids, sedatives, or alcohol, as these combinations can cause dangerous respiratory depression. You should also avoid altering the medication’s administration method (like smoking or injecting) as this can prompt withdrawal or reduce its effectiveness.Why is Suboxone being discontinued?
Suboxone is not being discontinued broadly, although specific formulations may change over time. Some people may have Suboxone discontinued in their treatment plan as they progress through recovery, transitioning to lower doses or different maintenance approaches.How long does Suboxone block a high?
Suboxone can block the euphoric effects of other opioids for approximately 24 to 36 hours, although this varies based on dosage and individual metabolism. This blocking effect helps prevent relapse by making other opioid use ineffective during treatment.What is the 3-day rule for Suboxone?
The 3-day rule refers to the guideline that individuals should typically be in mild to moderate withdrawal (usually 12 to 24 hours for short-acting opioids or 2 to 3 days for long-acting opioids) before starting Suboxone. Beginning too early can precipitate severe withdrawal symptoms.Can snorting Suboxone cause a Suboxone overdose?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on Suboxone, especially when taken in large amounts or combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines. While Suboxone has a ceiling effect that limits respiratory depression, overdose can still occur through misusing suboxone.Get Help with Opioid Abuse at a Premier Rehab in California
If you have become addicted to opioids, we can help you recalibrate your life at California Detox in Laguna Beach, CA. We treat all addictions at varying levels of intensity with clinically supervised MAT therapy and evidence-based treatments. We also offer comprehensive programs for those with co-occurring mental health disorders. Since all opioid addictions are unique, all California Detox treatment plans are customized to reflect this. Therapies include:- Medication-assisted treatment
- Counseling
- Motivational therapy
- Talk therapies
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Holistic therapy
- Aftercare
