At StartBupe Services, we believe in providing comprehensive and informed care for individuals struggling with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). One of the key components of our Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the combination drug buprenorphine-naloxone, commonly known as Suboxone. This blog post will explain the science behind naloxone, its role in Suboxone, and important considerations regarding allergies and sensitivities to naloxone.
The Science Behind Naloxone
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, which means it binds to opioid receptors in the brain and blocks the effects of other opioids. It is primarily used to reverse opioid overdoses by quickly restoring normal breathing in individuals whose breathing has slowed or stopped due to opioid use1.
How Naloxone Works in Suboxone:
- Prevents Misuse: When taken as prescribed (sublingually, under the tongue), naloxone has minimal effect because it is poorly absorbed this way. However, if Suboxone is dissolved and injected, naloxone becomes active and can precipitate withdrawal symptoms, deterring misuse1.
- Induces Precipitated Withdrawals: If injected, naloxone displaces opioids from the receptors, causing a rapid onset of withdrawal symptoms. This mechanism helps prevent the misuse of Suboxone by making the experience of injecting it highly unpleasant1.
Allergies vs. Sensitivities to Naloxone
True Allergy to Naloxone:
- Rare but Serious: True allergies to naloxone are extremely rare but can include severe reactions such as anaphylaxis. Symptoms of a true allergic reaction include rashes, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing2.
- Documentation Required: Generally, to qualify for treatment with buprenorphine mono-therapy (Subutex) at our program, a true allergy to naloxone must be documented by your prior medical provider(s) and those records provided to our medical providers. This documentation ensures that the allergy is genuine and not mistaken for something else possibly less serious3.
Naloxone Sensitivity:
- Common Reactions: Many patients may experience sensitivity to naloxone, which can include mild side effects such as headaches, changes in heart rate, nervousness, nausea, and vomiting. These reactions are generally not life-threatening and do not qualify as true allergies2.
- Treatment Implications: Patients who claim a sensitivity to naloxone are generally not candidates for buprenorphine mono-therapy (Subutex) because the benefits of the combination therapy (Suboxone) in preventing misuse outweigh the mild discomfort of sensitivity3.
The Cost of Naloxone
The cost of naloxone has decreased significantly since the start of the opioid crisis. This reduction in cost has made the combination therapy (buprenorphine-naloxone) more affordable and accessible. The generic and wholesale prices of Suboxone are now very close to those of buprenorphine mono-therapy (Subutex), making it a cost-effective option for many patients45.
Conclusion
At StartBupe Services, we are committed to providing safe and effective treatment for OUD. Understanding the role of naloxone in Suboxone, the differences between true allergies and sensitivities, and the cost considerations are crucial for making informed decisions about your treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, our team of medical providers and counselors are here to support you every step of the way.
If you or a loved one is struggling with OUD, contact StartBupe Services at 704-246-4644 or at https://www.startbupe.com to start today. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way and ready to provide the comprehensive care you need to achieve lasting recovery.
3AAAAI on Naloxone Hypersensitivity
Reviewed by a medical professional