Subutex is an opioid-type medicine, which contains the active ingredient buprenorphine. Opioids act in the same way as other strong painkillers such as codeine, morphine, and heroin. This drug works by mimicking the natural endorphins, found in the brain and spinal cord.
The main use for Subutex is as a substitute for heroin. This drug is different from methadone another heroin substitutes as the effect on the brain is not as strong. This drug is taken orally and the tablet must be placed under the tongue for it to work. It’s absorbed straight into the blood stream, and if swallowed it will not work. Some of the side effects can be, an unexpected drop in blood pressure that may result in feeling faint. Other possible side effects also include headaches, insomnia , constipation and nausea. The long term side effects are addiction, as subutex is highly addictive and can also cause overdose, which can occur if taken with other medication or alcohol.
Subutex vs Methadone
Many people feel clearer headed with subutex compared with methadone. It also tends to be more comfortable from which to detox. The other benefits of subutex are that it reduces cravings for heroin and it also contains a blocking effect. If heroin is used on top of this drug the effects of the heroin are cancelled out. If you are using heroin you need to wait at least 8 hours after your last use. Or between 24 – 36 hours after your last use of methadone. The reason for this is in order fir it to be effective it is necessary to have a low level of methadone or heroin in your system.
Withdrawals
You need to be feeling slight withdrawals before starting use of subutex otherwise it can cause withdrawals to start suddenly. The first 2-3 days of taking this drug may be uncomfortable feelings but the craving to use heroin will not be there. Subutex can be dangerous, even fatal if used with other drugs such as anti depressants, strong painkillers, tranquilizers, sleeping tablets, alcohol, etc. This drug must not be injected as the risk of overdose and death is even higher.
Black market
Subutex is becoming increasingly easier and cheaper to obtain on the black market compared with other drugs, and with this it then amplifies the number of addictions. First licensed in the U.K for treatment of opioid addiction in 1999. Studies made by the UN International Narcotics control board found that between 2000 and 2004 the consumption tripled due to the fact that subutex has become more accessible and cheaper than heroin.
Know more about the impact of drug addictions
If you or some you know suffers with Heroin addiction and would like a free assessment or advise then call us on 01462 851414.
