Suboxone strips are a common Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) option for people receiving care for opioid use disorder. The sublingual strips are placed inside the mouth, where they dissolve according to the prescribed directions.
If a medical professional has prescribed Suboxone as part of your treatment plan, you need to understand how to use the strips correctly.
Are you or a loved one about to begin Suboxone treatment?
This guide explains how to take Suboxone strips, what to expect while they dissolve, and what to consider if you have questions about taking them. We have outlined the standard medical protocols and adherence guidelines necessary to support a safe and effective treatment plan. Always follow your prescribing clinician’s instructions, as individual treatment plans may differ.
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a prescription medication used for opioid use disorder treatment or opioid addiction. It helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms caused by opioids like heroin, fentanyl, or prescription painkillers. It’s a combination drug containing two active ingredients:
- Buprenorphine: A partial opioid agonist that binds to opioid receptors and may help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Naloxone: An opioid antagonist that blocks opioid effects at certain receptors. It is included in Suboxone as part of its formulation.
To understand what Suboxone treatment is , it helps to look at how the medication may be incorporated into opioid use disorder care. The treatment approach may include Suboxone as part of a broader medical plan for opioid use disorder.
Its administration method can vary depending on the prescribed formulation and individual treatment needs.
Why Does Administration Method Matter?
How you take Suboxone can affect how the administration, absroption of the medication in how its ingredients affect your body. Doctors often recommend dissolving Suboxone under your tongue or inside your cheek, not swallowing it. In this way, it supports administration according to prescribing instructions.
Enables Proper Buprenorphine Absorption
Following the prescribed administration method allows buprenorphine to be absorbed through tissues inside the mouth. The strips are intended for oral use. Prescribing information or your clinician’s specific treatment instructions guide Suboxone strip placement and duration.
Keeps Naloxone Inactive
Suboxone contains Naloxone, which has opioid-antagonist activity. When you take it as directed, its absorption differs from buprenorphine. When dissolved in the mouth as directed, the body absorbs almost no Naloxone.
It then travels to the stomach and liver, where it is broken down and stays inactive. This means Naloxone does not block the beneficial effects of buprenorphine.
Can Prevent Immediate Severe Withdrawal (Misuse Deterrent)
Changing how Suboxone is administered can alter the absorption of its ingredients. Crushing, dissolving, or injecting the medication may make it fully active in the bloodstream. This is intended to prevent the buprenorphine from entering the bloodstream properly. The medication may not provide the intended effect when taken incorrectly.
Swallowing Makes It Ineffective
Swallowing Suboxone like a regular pill can cause your liver to break down both ingredients.It may prevent the buprenorphine from entering the bloodstream properly. Therefore, the medication becomes useless for stopping withdrawal symptoms.
Requires Steady Contact for Full Effect
The medication should remain in place while dissolving, without chewing or deliberately moving it. You should not speak during this process, as it may alter how your body absorbs the medicine successfully.
How Do You Take Suboxone Strips? Step-by-Step Instructions
To take aSuboxone film, you should place it under your tongue and allow it to dissolve completely without chewing or swallowing. We recommend that you follow your prescription and clinician’s instructions for timing, placement, and use during treatment.
Below are the standard step-by-step instructions to take Suboxone:
- Wash Hands
First, wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them thoroughly. Clean hands can help you handle the package and film before administration. Avoid touching the strip unnecessarily before placing it under your tongue.
- Moisten the Mouth
Take a small sip of water and gently swish it around your mouth to moisten the area beneath your tongue. Follow your prescribed directions regarding whether to swallow or spit out the water afterward if needed.
- Open the Package
Open the individual foil pouch immediately before use. Tear the package along its designated notch or line, and then remove the film carefully. Avoid damaging the strip while opening the pouch as directed.
- Position the Strip
Place the strip flat beneath your tongue, as close to the base as comfortably possible. If the medical practitioner prescribes you 2 strips, place them on opposite sides. This will prevent them from overlapping or stacking duringSuboxone administration.
- Let It Dissolve
Keep the strip still beneath your tongue while it dissolves completely. Do not chew, suck, or swallow the film. Follow the product instructions for the expected dissolution time and your clinician’s directions throughout your treatment.
- Avoid Eating or Drinking
While the buprenorphine-naloxone film dissolves, avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or talking unless your clinician advises otherwise. To know when to resume these activities after administration, including any recommended waiting period, adhere to the product instructions.
How Long Does It Take for a Suboxone Strip to Dissolve?
It typically takes about 5 to 15 minutes for a Suboxone strip to dissolve completely under the tongue or inside the cheek.
However, the exact time varies based on mouth moisture and placement. You may need to avoid talking, swallowing, eating, or drinking while the medication is dissolving to ensure proper absorption. Moreover, placing the strip correctly also helps it work effectively.
Your prescribing clinician can clarify any questions about proper administration during treatment.
Can You Swallow Suboxone Strip Residue?
The suboxone film strips come with the design to dissolve completely under the tongue. Once the strip has completely dissolved, a mixture of saliva and slight residue may remain. It’s okay to swallow the saliva and any leftover bits in your mouth after it’s fully dissolved.
The important part is letting the medicine absorb in your mouth first. Swallowing what’s left afterward is normal. Make sure to follow the instructions your Suboxone doctor gives you.
What to Avoid While Taking Suboxone Strips?
While taking Suboxone strips, you may need to avoid alcohol, central nervous system (CNS) depressants like benzodiazepines, and other opioids. This is because combining them can cause severe breathing problems, coma, or death:
- Alcohol
Drinking alcohol while on Suboxone may cause serious health risks. It can cause extreme drowsiness and slow your breathing, so it’s safest to avoid alcohol completely during treatment.
- Benzodiazepines
Mixing Suboxone with anxiety medications like Xanax or Ativan can increase the risk of sleepiness and breathing issues. Always check with your doctor before combining these medications.
- Other Opioids
Taking Suboxone alongside other opioid drugs, including street drugs, can be deadly. This combination greatly raises your risk of a potentially life-threatening effects, including respiratory depression. Hence, always avoid it entirely.
- Sedating Antihistamines & Sleep Aids
Medicines like Benadryl or sleep aids may add to Suboxone’s drowsiness and breathing risks. Even common allergy pills can make these effects worse, so use caution always.
- Muscle Relaxers
Using muscle relaxers such as cyclobenzaprine with Suboxone can cause extra dizziness and sleepiness. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking to reduce potential medication-related risks.
- Eating and Drinking Timing
Wait at least 15 minutes after eating or drinking before taking Suboxone. After your dose, wait another 15 minutes before consuming anything else for best results.
- Grapefruit
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while using Suboxone. They can interfere with how your body processes the medication, potentially causing side effects or reducing its effectiveness.
- Improper Use
Do not swallow Suboxone strips whole, inject them, or use them differently than prescribed. The strips must dissolve in your mouth to work safely and properly.
What Happens If You Miss a Suboxone Dose or Take It Wrong?
Missing a Suboxone dose or taking it differently than intended may influence how the treatment works for you. Some people notice their usual symptoms returning; however, others may not feel any changes.
What Happens If You Miss a Dose?
Multiple missed doses:If you miss multiple doses, such as over 24 to 48 hours, you may experience symptoms like muscle aches, restlessness, anxiety, irritability, sweating, or chills.
Single missed dose:Some sources suggest that if it’s within 12 hours, you might be able to take your usual dose. However, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider.
Close to the next dose:If you are close to your next scheduled dose, you might consider skipping the missed one and returning to your usual routine. It’s generally not recommended to double up or use an extra dose.
What Happens If You Take It Wrong?
- Swallowing or chewing:Suboxone is typically designed to dissolve under your tongue or against your cheek. Swallowing it whole may reduce how effective it is.
- Injecting the medication:Some sources note that injecting Suboxone may carry serious health risks. This includes infections and can sometimes lead to severe withdrawal.
- Mixing with other substances:Taking doses close together might increase the chance of excessive sedation. The risk could become more significant if alcohol or other sedating substances are also used, as the combination may slow breathing.
Taking time to read the product label can help you stay informed. If you have questions or concerns, reaching out to a healthcare professional or local pharmacist can offer guidance that fits your circumstances.
Side Effects Of Suboxone Strips
Some people taking Suboxone film strips may experience side effects. The type and severity can vary between individuals. Possible effects may include:
Commonly Reported Effects
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headache
- Excessive sweating
- Dizziness
- Stomach cramps
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Flu-like symptoms
- Chills or fever
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
Potentially Serious Effects
- Reduced libido
- Slurred speech
- Extreme drowsiness
- Hives or rash
- Skin itching
- Hallucinations
- Menstrual changes
- Facial swelling
- Limb swelling
- Breathing difficulties
- Yellowed skin
- Yellowed eyes
If concerning symptoms occur, contact the prescribing healthcare provider to determine the appropriate next step.
Suboxone Strips vs. Tablets: What’s the Difference?
Suboxone is available in different oral forms, including sublingual films and tablets. While both forms contain buprenorphine and Naloxone, their physical form and administration instructions can differ.
Your prescribing clinician can explain which formulation fits your treatment plan and how to use it correctly.
Take a look at the differences below:
| Feature | Suboxone Strips (Film) | Suboxone Tablets |
| Form | Thin dissolvable film | Dissolvable tablet |
| Active ingredients | Buprenorphine and Naloxone | Buprenorphine and Naloxone |
| Administration | Placed under the tongue or inside the cheek, according to prescribing instructions | Placed under the tongue, according to prescribing instructions |
| How it dissolves | Dissolves in the mouth | Dissolves in the mouth |
| Handling | Individual film may be handled and positioned according to product instructions. | Tablet is placed and allowed to dissolve according to product instructions |
| Dosage options | Available in specific strengths | Available in specific strengths |
| Which is appropriate? | Depends on the prescribed treatment plan | Depends on the prescribed treatment plan |
Tips to Make Taking Suboxone Strips Easier
Proper Suboxone use can be challenging. However, simple adjustments to your routine can make the daily process much easier:
- Moisten your mouth first:Takea small sip of water before placing the strip. It helps the strip dissolve more easily and comfortably.
- Place it accurately:Place the film far back under your tongue, on either side, and let it lie flat without overlapping. This helps with proper dissolving.
- Stay still:Try not to talk, chew, or swallow while the film dissolves, as this can help keep it in place.
- Try the spit trick:Once dissolved, spit out the remaining saliva residue to avoid the bad taste and reduce potential stomach nausea.
- Avoid eating or drinking:Wait about 15 to 30 minutes before and after your dose to facilitate absorption of the medication.
When to Talk to Your Doctor About Suboxone Administration?
If you experience severe side effects, struggle with cravings, or miss a dose, you should consult with your doctor. Understanding the pros and cons of medication-assisted treatment can also help you discuss your care options.
With proper expert guidance, your treatment can stay safe, effective, and on the right track. You may reach out to your doctor if you experience:
- Persistent cravingsor withdrawal symptoms.
- Severe side effectslike dizziness or breathing issues.
- Accidental missed dosesor timing confusion.
Get Proper Guidance On Suboxone Strip Administration With Carolina Recovery MD
Taking Suboxone strips as directed can play an important role in supporting treatment for opioid addiction. Following your healthcare provider’s instructions may help you get the most out of your medication and support your recovery goals.
If you have questions or concerns about Suboxone treatment, reach out to Carolina Recovery MD today. We provide physician-led, personalized care in a private medical setting. Dr. Brian Adler and the clinical team can review your needs and discuss appropriate treatment options for Suboxone administration.
Schedule a confidential consultationand discuss your questions with a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Many Times A Day Do You Take Suboxone Strips?
You may need to take Suboxone strips once or multiple times daily, depending on your prescribed treatment plan. The dosing schedule varies from person to person. So, your clinician determines how often you should take them.
2. Can You Drink Water Right After Taking Suboxone?
You can drink water after it dissolves, although specific timing can vary. Some product guidance recommends waiting until the film has dissolved before drinking, eating, or rinsing your mouth.
3. Does It Matter Which Side You Put The Suboxone Strip?
You can place Suboxone strips under the tongue as directed. If using the cheek area, placement instructions may differ by product. We suggest you ask your clinician if you are unsure about placement.
4. Can You Cut A Suboxone Strip In Half?
Do not cut a Suboxone strip unless your prescriber or pharmacist specifically advises it. The appropriate way to divide or adjust medication depends on the prescribed formulation and treatment plan.
5. What Does Suboxone Taste Like?
Suboxone strips can have a taste that some people notice while they dissolve. Taste perception varies between individuals, and the medication may leave a lingering flavor afterward during administration.
