Heroin Withdrawal: Methadone & Heroin Facts

Question: Can i take suboxone for just a few days to get through heroin withdrawal?

(Posted by: on 2012-01-25 23:32:33)

I have been shooting heroin, 15 bags per day, for 6 months. I have 8mg Suboxones that I got from my Dr. What if I take Suboxone for just 3- 7 days to get through withdrawal? I plan on taking 4- 8mg the first few days and tapering down from there. I do not want to take Suboxone regularly, I just want to get through withdrawal with as little discomfort as possible. Has anyone tried this before? Any suggestions? I did heroin for 3 years, went through medicated detox and two months of in- patient rehab. I was clean for 5 years and then foolishly slipped up 6 months ago. I do not want to go through rehab again!

Posted by: justinfranksnj on 2012-01-26, 11:51:16

You need to already be in moderate to moderately severe withdrawal before taking Suboxone. Otherwise, the buprenorphine will trigger a hellish experience called precipitated withdrawal. Waiting 24 hours after your last shot of heroin is the absolute minimum. Waiting 36-48 hours is even better. If taken properly (they are sublingual, meaning you need to let it dissolve under your tongue or between your cheeks and gums, and not swallowing anything until it is fully dissolved), your withdrawal symptoms should begin to lessen very quickly.

Posted by: Eddie on 2012-01-26, 20:27:26

I have experienced precipitated withdrawals before, its awful. But is it possible to skirt withdrawal all together by only taking suboxone during the heroin withdrawal and stoping before becoming addicted to the suboxone (only taking it for 3-7 days)?