How to use Suboxone safely and make treatment work for you

Take your medication as prescribed:

  • Dissolve film or tablet completely under your tongue — don't chew or swallow
  • Take at the same time each day
  • Never take more or less than prescribed without talking to your clinician
  • Never share your medication

Timing your first dose correctly: Wait until you're in mild-to-moderate withdrawal (usually 12–24 hours after your last opioid use) before taking your first dose. Starting too early causes precipitated withdrawal. Your clinician will guide you through this.

Keep your monthly visits: These aren't just for prescription renewals — they're your ongoing check-in for progress, dose adjustments, and support.

Avoid mixing substances: Using opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol while on Suboxone significantly increases overdose risk. Suboxone does not fully protect against overdose from other substances.

Use the support available to you:

  • QuickMD counseling: $19/30 minutes — book through the app after your first MAT visit
  • Peer support groups: Tuesdays, 7:30–8:30 PM EST
  • Narcotics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, and other community resources

Store your medication safely: Keep Suboxone locked or secured — it is a controlled substance and can be dangerous to others, especially children.

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