Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, has become a critical tool as a treatment against opioid addiction. It's a medication formulated to minimize withdrawal symptoms and urges associated with opioid use. However, as with many medications, there's potential for misuse. While Suboxone is a well-tolerated drug, the overdose of Suboxone can be life-threatening. This emphasizes the need for awareness and being proactive. In this extensive guide, we will delve deep into the symptoms of a Suboxone overdose and how to respond to such emergencies.

Understanding Suboxone

It's important to understand suboxone before delving into the symptoms and first aid procedures. Suboxone acts on the same brain receptors as opioids and is primarily used to treat opioid addiction. This reduces the euphoria that comes with the medicines and lessens the symptoms of withdrawal. On the other hand, an overdose may result from consuming it in excess.

Who Can Overdose on Suboxone?

Certain people are vulnerable to overdosing on Suboxone, despite being quite well-tolerated. It's important to know who can overdose so that it can be prevented. 

Individuals New to Opioids: Suboxone overdose is more likely in those who have not developed an opiate tolerance. For someone who is not used to opioids, even a tiny quantity can be harmful.

Individuals Mixing Substances: Combining drugs is a very dangerous practice. When mixed with other substances, especially CNS depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other opioids, the risk of overdosing on Suboxone increases.

Individuals with Liver Problems: Like other medications, buprenorphine is metabolized in the liver. Individuals with liver problems may not be able to metabolize the medicine as well, which might result in increased blood levels and a higher risk of overdosing.

People Taking High Doses: Addicts who abuse Suboxone by exceeding recommended dosages are inherently more likely to overdose.

Elderly Patients: An overdose can be more likely in older persons due to slower pharmaceutical metabolization and perhaps impaired respiratory function.

Children: Accidental ingestion by children can be fatal. Children might be attracted to the medication if it's left in an accessible location, not recognizing the danger. All medications need to be kept out of children's reach.

Recognizing the Overdose Symptoms

Knowledge of the symptoms is the first line of defense against a possible overdose. Shallow or slow breathing can hinder oxygen from getting to the brain. This damages the brain or may lead to death. More of such symptoms include: 

  • Respiratory depression
  • Blurred vision or contracted pupils
  • Drowsiness or dizziness
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Slurred speech
  • Coordination problems
  • Nausea or vomiting is dangerous especially if the person is lying and may choke.
  • Cold or clammy skin, especially fingertips
  • Pale skin or lips
  • Low blood pressure
  • Dangerously weak pulse

What to Do If Someone Overdoses on Suboxone?

You will need to work very quickly if you see someone overdosing on Suboxone. Here are some steps that are crucial to save a person's life from death due to overdose.

Immediate Response: Call 911

The first thing you should do if you see these symptoms is call emergency services. It is always best to be careful, even if you are unsure whether there was an overdose. As you wait:

  • Stay with the person until help arrives as their condition can change rapidly.
  • Position them safely; If unconscious but breathing, place them (on their side).
  • Avoid inducing vomiting: This can cause more harm than good.

Rescue Breathing: A Potential Lifesaver

If the person's breathing becomes erratic or stops, performing rescue breathing can be vital:

  • Clear any obstructions from their mouth.
  • Tilt their head back to open the airway.
  • Pinch the nose and cover their mouth with yours.
  • Deliver two quick breaths initially, followed by one breath every 5 seconds.

Naloxone: An Overdose Antidote

Narcan (Naloxone) may not work if you are overdosing on Suboxone. However, if you have one, there is no harm in administering it even if you are not sure that they are overdosing on opioids. It can buy some time even if it is short-lived. 

Here are the steps to administer:

  • Typically, it's administered as a nasal spray or injection.
  • Monitor the patient'sresponse. If you notice no improvement within 2-3 minutes, feel free to administer another dose.
  • Always inform the paramedics about naloxone usage.

You have to call 911 even if you have administered Naloxone.

Monitoring and Comfort

If they remain conscious:

  • Engage them in conversation
  • Try to keep them awake
  • Inform them that help is on the way Reassure them that help is on the way
  • Support them as much as you can

Be Prepared to Provide Information

When emergency responders arrive, they'll need as much information as possible:

  • Suboxone dosage and duration of use.
  • If other drugs are ingested.
  • Any medical history of the individual, if any.
  • Any other pertinent information, such as past overdose events or allergies.

Aftercare and Prevention

As important as it is to act quickly, it is also important to think of long-term care. Overdosing may indicate untreated underlying problems that need to be addressed:

  • Consider counseling or therapy.
  • Join support groups for those recovering from addiction.

Takeaway

Although uncommon, suboxone overdoses can be fatal. Knowing the right first aid procedures and how to apply them may save lives. Safety should always come first, and if in doubt, get help from a medical expert.

Disclaimer: This material is not intended to replace expert medical advice or treatment; it is just meant to be informative. For any medical issues, always seek the advice of a healthcare professional. Call 911 in case of emergencies.