Can Subutex Get You High?

Subutex is actually one of the prescription drugs approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to help individuals with an opioid use disorder (OUD). Subutex (buprenorphine) acts on the opioid receptors in the brain, which may result in a sense of overall well-being. However, it does not result in an intense euphoric high like that of other opioids (oxycodone, Vicodin, etc.).

In those who are opioid-dependent, they may not experience any of the positive feelings or well-being that a non-opioid-dependent individual may feel when taking Subutex. Misusing Subutex, such as snorting or injecting it, may get a person ‘high’, but it is unlikely to produce the same euphoric high associated with other opioids.

Learn more about the benefits of taking Subutex

Ceiling Effect Of Subutex

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) reported that the maximum effect of Subutex is experienced at between a 16 and 32 milligram dosage. This means that if a person takes a higher dose of Subutex, it is unlikely that they will feel additional effects, and risk of overdose is rare.

The dangerous part is when someone combines Subutex with other substances, especially other opioids. The risk for overdose increases significantly.

Mixing Subutex With Other Drugs

Combining Subutex with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants can heighten the effects of these drugs. CNS depressants include benzodiazepines, alcohol, sleeping pills, or other opioids.

Signs Someone May Be Misusing Subutex

Even though Subutex has a lower risk of misuse than many other opioids, misuse can still happen. Warning signs include taking the medication in ways other than prescribed, such as crushing, snorting, or injecting it, as well as taking higher doses than directed or running out of prescriptions early.

Other signs include seeking out multiple doctors to get more Subutex, or using it alongside alcohol or other drugs to feel a stronger effect. If these behaviors show up, it may be a sign that treatment needs to be reassessed by a medical professional.

Treatment For Subutex Misuse

The treatment protocol for Subutex follows a similar structure as opioid addiction treatment. The detoxification process may be a little more comfortable, and causes of addiction are explored.

Treatment options may include:

• counseling
• behavioral therapy
• 12-step recovery groups
• dual diagnosis treatment
• group therapy
• family therapy

Browse our directory or reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for more information about addiction recovery.