Many people who are prescribed Suboxone for opioid addiction treatment may wonder what will happen if they drink alcohol while taking the medication. As much as people may want to enjoy a social drink or two while in recovery, it’s important to understand the potential risks of mixing Suboxone and alcohol before doing so. In this article, we’ll explore what happens when these two substances are mixed and why it’s generally not recommended.
The Interaction Between Suboxone and Alcohol
Suboxone is a medication that contains both buprenorphine and Naloxone. Buprenorphine is an opioid used to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in people addicted to opioids. On the other hand, Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that works to block the effects of opioids. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can also interact with opioids. Therefore, when Suboxone and alcohol are mixed, the result is an additive effect. This means that the combined effects of the two substances are greater than the sum of the individual effects.
The main concern with mixing Suboxone and alcohol is that it can lead to potentially dangerous respiratory depression. This is because both substances can slow down the breathing rate. When the breathing rate is slowed down too much, it can lead to a build-up of carbon dioxide in the blood, which can be dangerous or even fatal.
In addition, mixing Suboxone and alcohol can also lead to impaired judgment and coordination, which can increase the risk of accidents or injuries. It’s important to note that the risks associated with mixing these substances are not limited to those who are prescribed Suboxone for opioid addiction treatment. Anyone who takes Suboxone and drinks alcohol is at risk for these potential dangers. So, if you’re taking Suboxone, it’s important to avoid drinking alcohol altogether.
However, if you do choose to drink, be sure to do so in moderation, and it’s rather best to consult with your physician beforehand. And if you start to feel dizzy or lightheaded, stop drinking and seek medical help immediately. Apart from this, you may also check out whether is medical cannabis safe for use with Buprenorphine so that you are well informed about the risks and benefits of combining these substances as well and can make a more informed decision about your treatment.
How to Avoid the Dangers of Mixing Suboxone and Alcohol?
As we’ve seen, there are a number of dangers associated with mixing Suboxone and alcohol. In order to avoid these dangers, it’s essential to abstain from drinking alcohol altogether if you’re taking Suboxone. The first step is to consult with your Suboxone doctor in Oakland Park, as they will have the best knowledge as to whether or not drinking alcohol is safe for you. Moreover, they can help you develop a treatment plan that will minimize the temptation to drink and help you avoid any potential dangers.
In addition, there are a number of support groups available for those who are taking Suboxone and struggling with addiction. These groups can provide much-needed social support and accountability to help you stay on track with your treatment. If you’re struggling with dependence, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are a number of resources available to help you get on the road to recovery.
To Conclude
As you can see, there are a number of risks associated with mixing Suboxone and alcohol. If you’re taking Suboxone, it’s important to avoid drinking alcohol altogether and keep your doctor in the loop about your treatment plan. Your health and safety should always be your top priority.
