When you start medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with Suboxone, questions about the correct way to take it often come up—one of the most common being: Do you swallow Suboxone after it dissolves? Getting the method right is crucial, as it directly affects how the medication works in your body.
This guide will walk you through the simple and straightforward steps for taking Suboxone, offering practical tips to make sure you get the most out of your treatment. Whether you’re new to Suboxone or looking for clarity, this easy-to-follow, step-by-step approach is here to help.
Why Taking Suboxone the Right Way Matters
Suboxone contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine, which reduces cravings, and naloxone, which discourages misuse.
For Suboxone to work effectively, it must be absorbed correctly. That’s why the medication is designed for sublingual (under-the-tongue) administration—it allows the buprenorphine to absorb directly into the bloodstream through the tissues in your mouth.
Swallowing Suboxone after it dissolves can reduce its effectiveness, as the medication passes through the digestive system rather than directly entering the bloodstream. Instead, here’s how to take Suboxone the right way.
How to Take Suboxone the Right Way: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Yourself and the Medication
- Find a quiet, comfortable place where you won’t be disturbed.
- Wash your hands to ensure cleanliness.
- Remove the Suboxone film or tablet from its packaging while being careful not to damage it.
2. Place the Medication Under Your Tongue
How to properly take Suboxone depends on what form of Suboxone you take:
- For Suboxone film: Place it under your tongue, ensuring it lies flat. Do not fold or stack the strips.
- For Suboxone tablets: Place the tablet under your tongue and let it sit there.
Important: Suboxone works best when you spread it evenly across the underside of your tongue.
3. Let It Fully Dissolve
- Keep the medication under your tongue and allow it to dissolve completely. This usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Avoid talking, eating, or drinking while the medication is dissolving to make sure it properly absorbs.
4. Don’t Swallow the Residue
After the medication has dissolved, you might notice some residue in your mouth.
- Why Not Swallow?: Suboxone is designed for sublingual absorption. Swallowing any residue sends the medication to your stomach, where it is broken down and becomes less effective.
- Instead, let the residue naturally dissipate or rinse your mouth gently with water after a few minutes.
Rest assured, swallowing Suboxone residue is not harmful, but it’s best to let it naturally dissipate or rinse your mouth gently with water after a few minutes.
5. Avoid Eating or Drinking for 30 Minutes
To maximize absorption, avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth for about 30 minutes after taking Suboxone. This makes sure the medication fully absorbs and works as intended.
Tips for Success When Taking Suboxone
- Stay Consistent: Take Suboxone at the same time every day to establish a routine and maintain steady levels in your system.
- Communicate with Your Provider: If you experience side effects like nausea or difficulty with the dissolving process, let your doctor know. They can adjust your dosage or offer guidance.
- Store Properly: Keep Suboxone in its original packaging and store it at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
Common Questions About Taking Suboxone
Do you swallow Suboxone after it dissolves?
No. Suboxone is designed for sublingual absorption. Swallowing reduces its effectiveness.
What happens if I accidentally swallow Suboxone?
While it’s not harmful, swallowing Suboxone may make the medication less effective, as it won’t be fully absorbed into your bloodstream.
Can I take Suboxone with food or drink?
Try to avoid eating or drinking while the medication dissolves and for at least 30 minutes afterward.
How long does it take for Suboxone to start working?
Suboxone usually starts working within 20-60 minutes, with effects lasting up to 24 hours.
How QuickMD Can Help You on Your Suboxone Journey
Starting Suboxone treatment can feel like a lot to handle, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
At QuickMD, we make accessing medication-assisted treatment simple and convenient:
- Same-Day Appointments: Connect with licensed providers online from the comfort of your home.
- Expert Guidance: Our top-trained doctors will explain how to take Suboxone correctly and answer any questions you have.
- Convenient Prescriptions: After your consultation, your Suboxone prescription is sent directly to your pharmacy of choice.
With QuickMD’s HIPAA-compliant, confidential process, you can focus on your recovery with peace of mind.
How to Take Suboxone Correctly: Final Thoughts
Taking Suboxone correctly is essential for its effectiveness in managing opioid use disorder.
Remember, don’t swallow Suboxone after it dissolves—let it absorb fully under your tongue for the best results. With the proper technique, you can maximize the benefits of this life-saving medication.If you’re ready to start your Suboxone treatment or need guidance along the way, QuickMD is here to help.
Compassionate, expert care is just a click away.
