How to use Suboxone® safely and make treatment work for you

If you’re taking Suboxone^®  for opioid addiction, chances are you’ve had questions. Maybe you’ve wondered how to take it the right way, or what happens if you miss a dose. Or whether it might show up on a drug test.

These are normal questions to have, and they come up often. The truth is, there’s a lot of information out there, and things can get confusing. We’re here to help make things easier to understand because you deserve clear, supportive answers.

Suboxone^® is a helpful, well-researched treatment for opioid use disorder, but like any medication, it can take time getting used to. In working with our patients, we’ve found that understanding the small details, like how long to let the tablet dissolve, what side effects are common, and how to handle a missed dose, can make a big difference in how confident and supported you feel.

That’s why we’ve written this guide. Whether you’re just starting Suboxone^® or you’ve been on it for a while, this is the kind of practical advice that can make things a little easier.

In the next sections, we’ll walk through common questions, like how to take Suboxone^®, what to do if you miss a dose, and more. We’ll also talk about things like relapse, so you’re not left guessing if you happen to have a setback.

Before we dive into specific questions, let’s start with some simple, everyday tips to help you feel more confident in your treatment.

Quick tips on how to use Suboxone^®

When taking Suboxone^® for opioid addiction treatment, it works best when it’s part of a clear, steady routine. Here are some practical tips to help you feel more confident and stay on track.

1. Take your Suboxone^® dose at the same time every day

Consistency helps your body adjust and keeps your recovery on track. Set a daily alarm or leave a sticky note somewhere you’ll see it (like on your phone or mirror) to remind you. Sticking to a routine makes it easier to manage opioid withdrawal and cravings.

2. Be honest with your provider about Suboxone^® side effects or missed doses

Suboxone^® treatment works best when you keep an open line of communication. If you’re missing doses, having trouble managing cravings, or experiencing side effects like nausea, constipation, or drowsiness, let your provider know. 

QuickMD providers are here to listen and help adjust your treatment if needed.

3. Avoid alcohol and talk to your provider about other medications

Combining alcohol with Suboxone^® can increase the risk of sedation and breathing problems. It’s safest to avoid alcohol entirely during treatment. 

Also, always tell your provider if you’re taking other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as certain combinations can be dangerous.

4. Stay hydrated and eat fiber-rich foods to ease Suboxone^® side effects

Suboxone^® can cause constipation or dry mouth, so drinking plenty of water and adding fruits and vegetables to your diet can help. Light exercise, like walking or stretching, can also keep digestion moving and improve your energy.

5. Support your opioid recovery mindset with small wins

Taking your Suboxone^® consistently, showing up to appointments, and having honest conversations with your doctor might seem like basic tasks, but they’re actually major victories worth acknowledging. When recovery feels overwhelming or progress seems slow, try stepping back to see how far you’ve already come.

Recovery from opioid addiction rarely follows a straight line. There will be difficult days, setbacks, and times when you might not feel your best. That’s normal and doesn’t mean you’re failing. What matters is your willingness to keep moving forward, even when progress feels slow or uncertain.

Give yourself the same compassion you’d offer a friend facing similar challenges. Recovery is hard work, and you deserve credit for every step you take toward healing.

Now that we’ve covered some day-to-day tips, let’s look at the most basic question: how should you actually take Suboxone^®?

How do I take Suboxone^®? Step-by-step tips

This is probably one of the first questions that comes up, and it’s a good one. 

Suboxone^® doesn’t work like a typical pill you just swallow. It’s designed to dissolve slowly, either under your tongue (sublingual) or between your gum and cheek (buccal). That’s how the medication gets into your system and starts helping.

If you swallow Suboxone^® like a regular tablet, your body can’t absorb it the same way. It passes through your digestive system, and most of it ends up being wasted. That means you might not feel the full effect, and your opioid withdrawal symptoms might come back.

Here’s what to do:

• Place the film or tablet under your tongue or inside your cheek.
• Don’t chew it, don’t swallow it.
• Try not to talk or move your mouth too much while it dissolves.
• Don’t eat or drink anything until it’s completely gone (this usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes).

The important thing is to give it time to dissolve fully. It can help to sit still, relax, and focus on breathing slowly while it does its job.

And yes, it has a bit of a bitter aftertaste. You’re not imagining it.

Some people describe it as chalky and bitter. If it bothers you, rinsing your mouth gently with water (after it’s fully dissolved) can help. Just don’t rinse while it’s still in your mouth or you’ll lose part of your dose.

And if you don’t let it dissolve fully one day, maybe you swallow it too early or forget and eat something, don’t panic. It happens. Just talk to your provider if it becomes a pattern. One mishap doesn’t undo all the progress you’re making.

If you’re getting care through QuickMD and you’re ever unsure if you’re taking your dose right, you can book a quick check-in with a provider to walk through it step-by-step.

Can Suboxone^® show up on a drug test?

This is one of those questions that can cause a lot of unnecessary stress, especially if you’re applying for a job, in a treatment program, or dealing with legal issues. 

The short answer is: Suboxone^® can show up on a drug test, but it depends on the type of test being used.

Suboxone^® contains buprenorphine, which is a partial opioid. Most standard drug panels (the kind many employers use) don’t automatically check for buprenorphine unless it’s specifically included. 

That means in many cases, Suboxone^® won’t trigger a positive result unless the test is designed to look for it.

If the test does screen for buprenorphine, it will show up, but that’s not a bad thing if you’re prescribed it. In fact, it often helps to be upfront. Let the testing agency or employer know you’re taking Suboxone^® as part of a treatment plan. That honesty can go a long way and may even help normalize recovery-focused care.

Important note: Suboxone^® doesn’t cause false positives for heroin, morphine, or oxycodone. So if you’re worried about being mistaken for using other opioids, that’s very unlikely with modern, properly calibrated tests.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, a relapse happens. Let’s talk about what that means and what steps you can take.

What happens if I relapse while on Suboxone^®?

First of all, if you’re reading this because you’re worried about relapse, or it’s already happened, take a deep breath. Relapse doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It’s something that happens to many people on the path to recovery, and it doesn’t erase your hard work or progress.

Suboxone^® is meant to help with cravings and withdrawal, but it isn’t a one-stop cure. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the pull of addiction can feel strong. What matters most is how you respond afterward.

Here’s what to know:

• Don’t stop your medication. Suboxone^® can still help manage withdrawal and reduce cravings. Stopping suddenly can actually make things harder.
• Reach out for support. Talk to your QuickMD provider, a trusted counselor, or even a supportive friend. You don’t have to figure this out alone.
• Be honest. Hiding a relapse out of shame or fear can make recovery more complicated. Being upfront with your provider lets them adjust your plan and provide extra support.

We understand how isolating and discouraging relapse can feel. We’re here to listen without judgment and work with you to strengthen your recovery plan. 

If you’ve used substances while on Suboxone^®, we’ll help you analyze what happened and develop strategies to prevent it from happening again.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Suboxone^®?

Missing a dose can happen to anyone. Maybe you got busy, maybe you forgot. It’s okay. The key is not to panic or try to “make up” for it in ways that might not be safe.

Here’s what to do:

• If you remember within a few hours, go ahead and take your missed dose.
• If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Don’t double up. Taking too much at once can increase side effects and make you feel sick.
• If you’re missing doses often, it’s worth talking to your QuickMD provider. We can help you figure out a plan that fits your routine and keeps your treatment steady.

The most important thing is to stay consistent whenever you can. But if you do miss a dose now and then, it doesn’t mean you’ve messed up your whole treatment. You’re human, and recovery isn’t about perfection. It’s about finding what works for you and sticking with it.

Can Suboxone^® make you sick?

When you first start Suboxone^®, it’s normal for your body to need some time to adjust, just as it would with most medications. 

You might feel nauseous, lightheaded, or have a bit of a headache. Some people also notice dry mouth or constipation. 

These side effects usually fade as your body adjusts, but they can definitely be frustrating when you’re already dealing with so much change.

Here’s what’s important:

• If your symptoms are mild, give it a few days. Stay hydrated, eat small meals, and rest when you can.
• If your symptoms are severe or don’t improve, reach out to your QuickMD provider. They can adjust your Suboxone^® dose or suggest ways to manage the side effects.
• If you ever feel extremely sick, like you can’t breathe or you’re having an allergic reaction, get medical help immediately. That’s rare, but it’s always better to be safe.

You don’t have to tough this out by yourself. If you’re struggling with side effects or have concerns about how you’re feeling, QuickMD providers are available to help you work through it. 

Sometimes, a simple Suboxone^® dosage adjustment or timing change can make all the difference in how you feel.

Final thoughts on Suboxone^®

Using Suboxone^® is a big step toward reclaiming your health, and it’s normal to have questions along the way.

The most important thing is to stay connected to your support system and your care team. Suboxone^® is a powerful tool, but having the right guidance and resources makes all the difference.

Frequently asked questions about Suboxone^® use

Will Suboxone^® make me tired?

Some people feel a bit drowsy or sluggish when they first start Suboxone^®, but this usually gets better as your body adjusts. Once stable, many people find their energy levels actually improve because Suboxone^® helps manage withdrawal and cravings.

How can I tell if my Suboxone^® dose is too high or too low?

If your dose is too low, you might notice cravings, withdrawal symptoms, or discomfort between doses. If it’s too high, you could feel overly drowsy or have trouble concentrating. The goal is finding that balance where you feel stable and clear-headed without cravings or withdrawal symptoms disrupting your day. 

If you’re noticing any of these signs, feeling like the medication isn’t holding you, or feeling like it’s too much, reach out to your QuickMD provider. Suboxone^® dose adjustments are completely normal, especially in those first few weeks or months as your body settles into treatment.

How should I store Suboxone^®?

Keep Suboxone® in its original packaging at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Don’t store it in your car, bathroom, or anywhere it might get too hot or humid. Always keep it out of reach of children or others for whom it’s not prescribed.