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Buprenorphine and naloxone

Brand names: Suboxone, Zubsolv

Buprenorphine-naloxone is a proven treatment for opioid use disorder. It reduces cravings and withdrawal and lowers the risk of overdose death.

Brand namesSuboxone, Zubsolv
Type of medicineMedicine for opioid use disorder
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid that eases withdrawal without the same high. Naloxone is added to discourage injecting it.

It works best with counseling and support. Long-term treatment is safe and effective for many people.

What it's used for

  • Opioid use disorder

How to take it

  • Place the film or tablet under the tongue (or inside the cheek) and let it dissolve completely. Don't chew or swallow it.
  • The first dose is taken once mild to moderate withdrawal has started, as your provider explains.
  • Afterward, wait a while before eating or drinking, and swish water to protect your teeth.
  • Keep naloxone (Narcan) at home and show family where it is. It can reverse an opioid overdose.
  • Keep it locked up; it can be deadly to a child.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Constipation
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Mouth numbness
Call 911Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing, blue lips, or can't be woken up
Call 911A child swallowed any amount. Call 911.
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes or dark urine
Call your provider todayStrong withdrawal symptoms after a dose

Warnings

  • Starting too soon after other opioids can cause sudden withdrawal.
  • Dental problems have been reported; see a dentist regularly.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Taking it with alcohol, benzodiazepines (like alprazolam or lorazepam), sleep medicines, gabapentin, or other opioids can slow breathing and cause death.
  • Some antifungals, antibiotics, and HIV medicines change its level.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Treatment for opioid use disorder is recommended in pregnancy; it's safer for the baby than continued opioid use. Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.