Can You Overdose on Suboxone?
Suboxone is a sublingual (taken under the tongue) film that is used daily to treat opioid addiction.1 While it’s possible, a Suboxone overdose is exceedingly rare.2
Keep reading to learn more about Suboxone, including its uses, how much Suboxone is too much, the Suboxone ceiling effect, and how to find effective Suboxone treatment near you.
What Is Suboxone Used For?
Suboxone can blunt or block opioid effects as well as alleviate opioid cravings that may contribute to relapse in patients with opioid use disorder. Suboxone is an important component of many patients’ treatment and recovery.3
Suboxone is a combination of 2 medications:4,5
- Buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist that works to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Buprenorphine’s mechanism of action also prevents other opioids from binding to opioid receptors, making them less effective and reducing cravings and the risk of overdose.
- Naloxone, an opioid antagonist that can block the effects of opioids and prevent overdose. The presence of naloxone discourages misuse by injection since it may cause immediate, uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if injected. When Suboxone is taken orally, a very small (though measurable) amount of naloxone enters the bloodstream.1
People who have opioid use disorder (OUD) require ongoing care, which is why doctors prescribe Suboxone not only to those undergoing withdrawal, but also on a long-term basis.1
Is It Possible To Overdose on Suboxone?
Suboxone or buprenorphine overdose is possible, but rare for several reasons.6
Researchers have observed what is known as a “ceiling effect” when it comes to buprenorphine use. This means its opioid effects, like respiratory depression (the main cause of opioid fatalities), are usually not exacerbated past a certain point despite increasing doses.3
The naloxone in Suboxone is intended to deter misuse, such as by injection. If an individual dependent on opioids injects Suboxone, the naloxone can cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, thereby discouraging this dangerous method of administration.1
How Does Suboxone-Involved Overdose Occur?
There are situations where Suboxone overdose may occur, but it is important to note that buprenorphine overdose is very rare, especially among adults.6
Suboxone overdose is most likely in individuals without opioid tolerance or who are using other substances simultaneously. Co-occurring use of depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines is hazardous.8
Symptoms of Suboxone Overdose
The signs and symptoms of a Suboxone overdose can include:1
- Pinpoint pupils.
- Over-sedation or loss of consciousness.
- Hypotension (low blood pressure).
- Respiratory depression (dangerously slowed or stopped breathing).
What to Do in the Event of an Overdose on Suboxone
If you suspect that someone is overdosing on Suboxone or experiencing another type of opioid overdose, it is imperative to take immediate action and follow these steps:7
- Call 911 immediately.
- Administer Narcan (naloxone) or another opioid reversal drug, if available.
- Support their breathing. The 911 operator should be able to assist you in providing rescue breaths.
- Stay with the person until help arrives.
Suboxone and Other Drug Interactions
As mentioned above, mixing Suboxone with other substances significantly increases the risk of overdose.1
Drug interactions between Suboxone and other drugs that can cause sedation, like muscle relaxants, pain medicines, tranquilizers, antidepressant medicines, sleeping pills, anxiety medicines, or antihistamines, are especially dangerous.1
Always tell your doctor about any medications you may currently be using before starting Suboxone, and do not take any new medications without consulting your doctor if you are already taking it.1
Ways to Get in Contact With Us
American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading provider of evidence-based treatment for OUD in the U.S., with facilities located across the nation. Our treatment centers offer various levels of care, such as drug detox, inpatient care, and outpatient rehab, and provide individualized treatment plans based on each person’s unique needs.
Please call our free, confidential helpline at to connect with a knowledgeable admissions navigator, who can help you start treatment, explain payment options, and instantly verify your insurance. You can also view our treatment centers, and if you’re not yet ready to talk, you can also contact us via our alcohol and drug addiction textline.
Frequently Asked Questions
