Subutex is actually one of the prescription drugs approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to help individuals struggling 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.
Abusing 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.
Treatment For Subutex Abuse
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.
Contact our treatment specialists today to get the help you or your loved one need. We are available for you at any time.
Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.
These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.
- Clinical Drug Investigation — Intravenous misuse of buprenorphine: characteristics and extent among patients undergoing drug maintenance therapy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20450240/ - National Drug Intelligence Center — Intelligence Bulletin: Buprenorphine: Potential for Abuse
https://www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs10/10123/index.htm - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — Buprenorphine
https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/buprenorphine - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — MAT Medications, Counseling, And Related Conditions
https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions#medications-used-in-mat
