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Frequently Asked Questions

Is SUBOXONE treatment just switching one addiction for another?

No-you are switching a life-risking behavior (addiction) for a daily medication that can put the addictive behavior in remission.  When you are ready you are medically withdrawn from use.  Methadone, on the other hand, is a highly addictive and abusable opioid that is generally used for a long period of time.

Why do I have to feel sick to start the medication for it to work best?

When you take your first dose of SUBOXONE, if you already have high levels of another opioid in your system, the SUBOXONE will compete with those opioid molecules and replace them at the receptor sites on the brain.  Because SUBOXONE has milder opioid effects than full agonist opioids, you may go into a rapid opioid withdrawal and feel sick, a condition which is called “precipitated withdrawal”.  By already being in mild to moderate withdrawal when you take your first dose of SUBOXONE, the medication will make you feel noticeably better, not worse.

 How does SUBOXONE work?

SUBOXONE binds to the same receptors as other opioid drugs.  It mimics the effects of other opioids by alleviating cravings and withdrawal symptoms.  This allows you to address the psychosocial reasons behind your opioid use.

When will I start to feel better?

Most patients feel a measurable improvement in 30 minutes, with the full effects clearly noticeable after about an hour.

How long will SUBOXONE last?

After the first dose, many people say they feel pretty good for most of the day.  Responses to SUBOXONE will vary based on factors such as tolerance and metabolism, so each patient's dosing is individualized and may vary during the first two weeks of treatment.

Can I go to work right after my first dose?

SUBOXONE can cause drowsiness and slow reaction times.  These responses are more likely during the first week of treatment, when your dose is being adjusted.  Many people prefer to take the first and possibly the second day of treatment off until they feel better.

Is it important to take my medication at the same time each day?

Yes, in order to make sure that you do not get sick, it is important to take your medication at the same time each day.

It is important to take the same dose each day?

It is important to take the full daily dose you were prescribed, so that your body remains constant levels of SUBOXONE.  While you may feel that you don't need as much medication today as you did yesterday, it is important that you DO NOT self-adjust your dose without your doctor's permission.

Can you explain how treatment works?

There are approx. five stages to treatment: Intake, Induction, Stabilization, Maintenance and Medically Supervised Withdrawal.  During intake and induction you will be given a comprehensive examination and you will be switched from your current opioid to SUBOXONE.  During the coming weeks, stabilization will be attained and you will stay at the prescribed level of medication until steady blood levels are achieved.  Upon entering the maintenance phase, treatment compliance will be monitored and Dr. O'Connell will work closely with your therapist or counselor.  When you feel you are ready, Dr. O'Connell will gradually taper your dose taking care that you don't experience any withdrawal symptoms or cravings.

Address: 703 Thimble Shoals Boulevard
Suite C5  • Newport News, VA 23606
Phone: (757) 508-2386

Frequently Asked Questions