Suboxone (a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone) has helped many people manage opioid addiction and reduce the risk of relapse. But for those who are ready to stop taking Suboxone, the journey forward often begins with a critical question: What happens when I stop?
Suboxone withdrawal is very real, and although generally less intense than other forms of opioid withdrawal (oxycodone, heroin, etc.), it can still be physically and emotionally taxing. If not done properly, it can lead to relapse or prolonged dependence. That's why understanding the withdrawal process and having a medically supervised detox plan is critical.
At The Coleman Institute, we offer a safe, outpatient Suboxone detox program designed to help people stop using the medication safely and comfortably in as little as 8 days.
What Is Suboxone & How Does It Work?
Suboxone is prescribed as part of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.Suboxone contains two ingredients -
- Buprenorphine: A partial opioid agonist that activates opioid receptors to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the full euphoria of other opioids.
- Naloxone: An opioid antagonist added to deter misuse. It remains inactive when taken as directed, but can block opioid effects if the medication is misused intravenously.
Why Does Suboxone Withdrawal Happen?
Even though Suboxone is used to treat opioid dependence, it's still an opioid. Over time, the brain adjusts to its presence. When the medication is reduced too quickly or stopped abruptly, withdrawal symptoms occur as the body struggles to rebalance without it.Factors that can influence the severity of withdrawal include -
- Duration of Suboxone use
- Daily dosage
- Overall physical health
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
- History of opioid use
Suboxone Withdrawal Symptoms - What to Expect
Withdrawal symptoms are similar to those of other opioids but tend to come on more gradually and last longer due to Suboxone's extended-release properties.Physical Symptoms
- Muscle aches & body pain
- Nausea, vomiting, & diarrhea
- Headaches & abdominal cramps
- Excessive sweating or chills
- Fatigue & low energy
- Tremors or restlessness
- Sleep disturbances or insomnia
- Runny nose, watery eyes, or yawning
Psychological Symptoms
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Depression or emotional numbness
- Mood swings & irritability
- Intense cravings for opioids
- Difficulty concentrating or staying motivated
- Feeling disconnected or overwhelmed
Suboxone Withdrawal Timeline
The timeline for Suboxone withdrawal can vary based on how the medication is stopped. The following is a general overview of what to expect when stopping Suboxone abruptly (cold turkey), without medical tapering -1 - 3 Days After Last Dose:
- Symptoms begin to emerge
- Anxiety, body aches, & insomnia are common
4 - 7 Days:
- Peak withdrawal symptoms
- Strong cravings, nausea, chills, & mood swings
2 - 4 Weeks:
- Physical symptoms begin to improve
- Mental health symptoms like depression & fatigue may persist
1+ Month:
- Some individuals experience Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)
- Ongoing psychological symptoms like low mood, poor sleep, & cravings may linger
Is It Safe to Detox from Suboxone at Home?
Tapering off Suboxone without medical supervision can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally overwhelming. Unfortunately, many people who attempt to quit cold turkey or without guidance end up relapsing or prolonging the process.Home detox attempts may lead to -
- Unmanaged withdrawal symptoms
- Risk of turning to other opioids
- Sleep deprivation and emotional instability
- Dangerously high relapse risk
Outpatient Suboxone Detox at The Coleman Institute
The Coleman Institute offers an accelerated Suboxone detox program that can help most patients completely detox in as little as 8 days, all without the need for hospitalization.What Makes Our Program Different?
- Outpatient-based care: Receive treatment while staying in the comfort of your own home or nearby accommodations
- Non-addictive comfort medications: Minimize withdrawal symptoms without using other opioids
- Naltrexone therapy: Helps reduce cravings after detox and supports long-term recovery
- Personalized care: Each detox is personalized to the individual's unique medical and substance use history
- Aftercare coordination: We work with patients to plan next steps in therapy, support groups, and relapse prevention
What Happens After Suboxone Detox?
Completing detox is a major milestone, but it's not the journey's end. Recovery is an ongoing process that requires continued support.After detox, individuals often benefit from -
- Outpatient counseling or therapy
- Peer support groups (like SMART Recovery or NA)
- Dual-diagnosis treatment if co-occurring conditions are present
- Recovery coaching or case management services
Take the First Step Toward Life After Suboxone
Suboxone withdrawal can be extremely difficult, but we're here to help you get through it as comfortably and safely as possible. The Coleman Institute offers a compassionate, medically supervised detox program that's fast, safe, and designed around your needs.If you're ready to stop Suboxone and move forward in your recovery, our experienced team is here to guide you toward lasting healing. Call The Coleman Institute at 703-991-0330 or schedule a callback to learn more about our safe, comfortable, and effective detox services.
