Does Subutex Cause Weight Changes?

Medically Reviewed by Johnelle Smith, M.D. on July 14, 2021

Subutex is an opioid-based medication that does not directly affect weight. However, some of its side effects may promote weight gain or weight loss in some people.

Medically Reviewed by
Johnelle Smith, M.D. on July 14, 2021
How Does Subutex Affect Weight?

Subutex is a medication for opioid use disorder that is not known to directly cause weight gain or weight loss. However, some of its side effects may cause changes in weight in some people.

Subutex is a central nervous system depressant that binds to opioid receptors in the brain that help regulate physical movement, hormones, and mood.

Effects on these important functions can factor into a person’s dietary habits, physical activity, and physiology.

Learn more about the benefits of taking Subutex during medication-assisted treatment

What Causes Weight Gain While Taking Subutex?

Subutex, the brand name for buprenorphine, is not known to cause weight gain. Yet people may gain weight while taking Subutex for a number of reasons.

Weight gain while taking Subutex may or may not be directly tied to the use of the drug itself.

Constipation

Constipation is a common side effect of opioid drugs. Although Subutex is only an opioid partial agonist, meaning it has weaker effects than most other opioids, constipation can still occur.

Temporary weight gain and bloating is common in people who become constipated.

This doesn’t necessarily indicate permanent weight gain, but it can have harmful effects on the body if it persists without relief.

Fluid Retention

People who are taking Subutex may experience fluid retention. Peripheral edema, which refers to a swelling of the legs or feet, can also occur while taking Subutex.

Water retention from Subutex may lead to minor changes in weight.

It can also cause bloating or swelling. Moderate to severe swelling and edema can also be a sign of an adverse reaction to Subutex.

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Changes In Appetite

Increased appetite is not a common side effect of Subutex. However, this can occur in people who are receiving treatment for opioid addiction.

Decreased appetite, malnutrition, and weight loss is a common consequence of chronic drug addiction, including addiction to opioids like heroin.

During the recovery process, it’s normal for a person’s appetite to return and for their weight to restore. Rather than a negative side effect, this can be a sign of improved health and nutrition.

Fatigue

Subutex has weak depressant effects on the central nervous system. After taking Subutex, a person may feel drowsy or fatigued.

People who feel fatigued may be less likely to engage in physical activity. Fatigue is also associated with both a loss of appetite and increased appetite.

Changes in appetite from fatigue may be influenced by underlying health conditions and other individual factors related to a person’s health and environment.

Insomnia

Difficulty falling or staying asleep is a common struggle of people who take Subutex and other medications for opioid use disorder, such as methadone and Suboxone.

Research shows that sleep deprivation may have effects on neurotransmitters in the brain that help regulate the body’s hormonal system and appetite.

Insomnia has been associated with increased hunger, metabolic dysregulation, and glucose intolerance—a precursor to diabetes.

Does Subutex Cause Weight Loss?

Weight loss while taking Subutex is not common, but this could potentially occur as a result of adverse side effects of Subutex or contributing causes unrelated to drug use.

Side effects and factors that can influence weight loss include:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • stomach pain
  • depression
  • anxiety
  • fatigue
  • drug misuse

For some people, weight loss may occur as a result of improved diet, physical activity, or other improved clinical markers while receiving treatment for opioid addiction.

What To Know About Subutex And Effects On Weight

First of all, Subutex alone is not associated with any significant changes in weight. Weight gain or loss while taking Subutex is likely related to other personal factors.

Some side effects of Subutex, such as insomnia and fatigue, may affect a person’s appetite, metabolism, and weight.

Beginning the road to recovery from substance abuse or drug addiction can also have these effects. In these instances, changes in weight may be a sign of improved health, rather than a cause for concern.

Find Subutex Treatment For Opioid Addiction Today

Weight gain is not a common side effect of Subutex, but it can occur in people who take this medication for opiate addiction.

For more information about the side effects of Subutex, or how to find Subutex treatment for yourself or a loved one, call our helpline to find the answers you’re looking for today.

This page does not provide medical advice. See more

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.

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