g opioids recently. Suboxone is for people that are currently opioid-dependent and have shown signs of opioid withdrawal.
Taking Suboxone to treat cravings, for those who are abstinent, can cause intoxication and dependence. Suboxone is also not for people who are currently intoxicated. If you take Suboxone on top of other opioids, alcohol or benzodiazepines can cause a dangerous overdose.
Can Suboxone be Used to Treat Pain?
Suboxone is not typically used to treat pain. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which means its effects, including analgesia, are limited compared to other full opioid agonists. However, some researchers have considered buprenorphine for use in pain-management medications.
Can Suboxone Cause Constipation?
Yes, it can. Though Suboxone includes a weaker opioid, it still causes some of the same common side effects that other opioid medications do like constipation.
In a clinical setting, constipation is usually easy to manage. If you have been prescribed Suboxone, your doctor may warn you about constipation, give you medications to counteract that side effect, or recommended dietary changes to help avoid the issue. If you experience it without having spoken to your doctor, let them know about your symptoms.
Can Suboxone Cause Weight Gain?
Suboxone doesn’t cause significant weight gain, but it can cause some symptoms that may seem like you are gaining weight. Opioids cause you to retain water, and they can cause constipation. Both of those symptoms may cause you to feel bloated.
However, people who start Suboxone treatment are already using opioids that may be causing those symptoms. Some people only notice it because they are no longer in a pattern of active addiction.