The words Suboxone and buprenorphine are often used as though they mean exactly the same thing. They are closely related, but there is an important distinction.
Buprenorphine is the medication ingredient
Buprenorphine is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder. It acts on opioid receptors in a way that can reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It is available in more than one formulation and under different brand names.
Suboxone combines buprenorphine and naloxone
Suboxone® is a brand name for a product that contains both buprenorphine and naloxone. Many generic buprenorphine/naloxone products are also available. In routine use as prescribed, buprenorphine is the main treatment component.
Naloxone is included in the combination product to discourage certain forms of misuse. It is not the same as relying on naloxone alone for ongoing opioid use disorder treatment.
Are they used for the same condition?
Both buprenorphine-only and buprenorphine/naloxone products may be used in opioid use disorder treatment. The appropriate formulation depends on clinical factors such as medical history, pregnancy considerations, medication tolerance, allergies, prior response, and safety.
A clinician can recommend an option after reviewing your history, prior response, current needs, and treatment goals.
What about methadone and naltrexone?
Buprenorphine is not the only medication used for opioid use disorder. Methadone and naltrexone are also FDA-approved options. They work differently and have different access, timing, and safety considerations. ClearLane does not function as an opioid treatment program for methadone dispensing, but can discuss appropriate treatment options and referrals.
Does medication replace counseling?
Medication and counseling are not interchangeable. Some people benefit from therapy, peer recovery support, or structured programs alongside medication. Others may need a different combination of services. Treatment should reflect the person’s goals, risks, access, and preferences.
Can treatment be provided online?
Evaluation and follow-up for buprenorphine treatment may be available by telehealth when clinically appropriate and permitted under current requirements. ClearLane serves adults who are physically located in Arizona, Florida, Ohio, or Washington during their appointments.
Questions to ask your clinician
- Which formulation are you recommending, and why?
- When and how should I begin taking it?
- What side effects or interactions should I know about?
- How often will follow-up visits occur?
- What should I do if cravings or withdrawal continue?
- What recovery supports might fit my goals?
Learn more
Explore ClearLane’s approach to online opioid use disorder treatment or schedule a private evaluation.