5 Signs Your Loved One Is Abusing Suboxone
Suboxone is a medication used to treat opioid addiction. It can be prescribed by a doctor or bought illegally on the street. If you suspect that your loved one may be abusing Suboxone, it’s important to know the signs and act quickly. Read this blog for more information about what to look out for and how you can help them get treatment.
1. They’ve increased their opioid using behavior.
One of the primary effects of Suboxone is to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. So, if your loved one is taking the drug as prescribed and still seems to be abusing other opioids or engaging in other addictive behaviors, then they may be abusing Suboxone. Part of the reason that people who are using Suboxone to treat their addiction may turn around and begin abusing other opioids is that they either become tolerant to the effects of Suboxone or that they feel as if it doesn’t ‘work’ anymore. The good news is that you can get them into a drug rehab program where they can get detoxed off of Suboxone and then given therapy and support as they recover from their addiction.
Learn more: What is Suboxone?
2. They’re constantly sick or complain of various symptoms.
Some people who begin abusing opioids have already become tolerant to the effects of the drugs, so they may take doses that are much higher than those prescribed by their doctor, which can cause them to feel very ill or even result in their death. If your loved one has escalated their use of opioids and seems to be constantly sick or complaining of various symptoms, then they may be abusing Suboxone. There are other ways that people can become ill such as sharing needles or engaging in risky behaviors such as prostitution, so if you suspect that they may be doing these things also, then make sure to speak with a professional as soon as possible.
3. They have financial problems.
The cost of Suboxone can be very high, so if your loved one is struggling financially and unable to pay their bills or take care of other responsibilities, then they may be abusing Suboxone. Sometimes people will abuse Suboxone just to get by and help them deal with their financial problems. If you think that your loved one has been abusing Suboxone, then it would be wise to check into some rehab programs for yourself, so you can learn how to cope with the situation and manage life without your loved one.
4. They show other signs of addiction.
People who are abusing Suboxone may also show signs of physical and psychological dependence such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Drug Cravings
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies
- Memory problems
- Sleeping difficulties
- Tolerance to the effects of drugs and alcohol
- Substance craving
- Increased aggression and irritability
- Mood swings
- Paranoia
- Psychosis
- Social isolation
The good news is that with help, you can learn to cope with the situation even if your loved one doesn’t attend rehab.
5. They hide their use of Suboxone from you.
If your loved one is hiding things like used needles or other evidence that would suggest that they are using drugs, then they may be abusing Suboxone. If you believe that they’re hiding their use, then it would be wise to find some rehab programs for yourself or track down some Narcan and keep it on hand just in case.
The signs of abuse are not always easy to see. It is important that you stay alert and aware of any changes in behavior or moods. If your loved one shows some of the following signs, it may be time to seek help from a professional who can assist with detoxification treatment plans and help your loved one get free from suboxone in Miami.
