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Who Qualifies for Suboxone Treatment?

Who Qualifies for Suboxone Treatment?

Suboxone is a highly effective medication-assisted treatment for individuals struggling with opioid dependence, but eligibility depends on several factors. A healthcare provider will assess medical history, substance use patterns, and overall health to determine if Suboxone is the right option. At Marcellus Wellness & Addiction, board-certified psychiatric mental health and adult nurse practitioner, Jean-Jeffrey Marcellus, provides expert evaluations and customized treatment plans to help patients on their path to recovery. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Bronx NY, Brooklyn NY, Manhattan NY, Queens NY, Rockville Centre NY, Staten Island NY, and surrounding areas.

Who Qualifies for Suboxone Treatment? -  Marcellus Wellness and Addiction in New York City
Who Qualifies for Suboxone Treatment? -  Marcellus Wellness and Addiction in New York City

Table of Contents:

Who is eligible for Suboxone treatment?
Do you need a diagnosis of opioid use disorder to qualify for Suboxone?
Can pregnant women qualify for Suboxone treatment?
Do I need to go through withdrawal before starting Suboxone?

Who is eligible for Suboxone treatment?


At Marcellus Wellness & Addiction, we understand the complexities involved in treating opioid addiction and are committed to providing comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Suboxone, a key medication in our treatment arsenal, is utilized to help individuals manage opioid use disorder effectively.

Eligibility for Suboxone treatment is determined through a thorough assessment conducted by our experienced healthcare providers. This evaluation is based on the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), focusing on aspects such as opioid cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and the inability to control opioid use.

Our treatment approach is geared towards individuals who are physically dependent on opioids and have expressed a genuine desire to reduce or cease their use. Suboxone is particularly beneficial for those who have struggled to maintain abstinence through other treatment methods. We also consider various factors such as existing medical conditions, potential drug interactions, and the individual’s capacity to adhere to the treatment program.

At Marcellus Wellness & Addiction, we believe that a stable living environment and robust support system are crucial for the success of Suboxone treatment. Our team works closely with patients to ensure they have the necessary resources and support to enhance their recovery journey. Ultimately, the decision for Suboxone treatment eligibility is made after a comprehensive evaluation of the individual’s medical history, current health status, and specific needs related to their opioid use disorder. Our commitment is to provide compassionate, personalized care that empowers patients to achieve lasting wellness and recovery.

Do you need a diagnosis of opioid use disorder to qualify for Suboxone?


A diagnosis of opioid use disorder (OUD) is generally required to qualify for Suboxone treatment. Suboxone is a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) approved by the FDA for individuals struggling with opioid dependence. Healthcare providers assess patients based on criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which considers factors such as cravings, withdrawal symptoms, loss of control over opioid use, and its impact on daily life. A formal diagnosis ensures that Suboxone is prescribed appropriately and used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include counseling and behavioral therapy.

However, some exceptions may apply depending on a patient’s medical history and unique circumstances. For instance, individuals who have developed physical dependence on opioids due to prolonged pain management may be considered for treatment. A healthcare provider will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if Suboxone is the right option. Since regulations may vary, consulting a qualified Suboxone provider is essential for understanding eligibility and treatment options.

For those considering Suboxone treatment, Marcellus Wellness & Addiction provides access to a team of specially certified providers who are deeply knowledgeable about substance use disorders and medication-assisted treatment. Our goal is to offer safe, effective, and compassionate care that empowers individuals on their journey to recovery.

Can pregnant women qualify for Suboxone treatment?


At Marcellus Wellness & Addiction, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder, including those who are pregnant. Our approach to treatment prioritizes the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus, recognizing the unique challenges and needs of pregnant women facing addiction.

Suboxone, a medication containing buprenorphine and naloxone, is a cornerstone of our opioid use disorder treatment protocol. For pregnant women, our team conducts a thorough assessment to evaluate the benefits and risks associated with Suboxone use, ensuring that each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s circumstances.

Opioid use during pregnancy poses significant risks, such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). We understand the importance of maintaining a stable, drug-free environment during this critical time. Suboxone can play a vital role in achieving this stability, reducing the risks associated with untreated opioid dependence.

At Marcellus Wellness & Addiction, our goal is to support a safe and healthy pregnancy while empowering mothers on their journey to recovery. We emphasize personalized care and ongoing communication between the patient and her healthcare team, understanding that the decision to use Suboxone during pregnancy requires careful consideration and adaptation to each woman’s needs.

For those considering Suboxone treatment during pregnancy, we invite you to consult with our experienced professionals. Together, we can navigate this complex situation and work towards achieving the best possible outcomes for both mother and child.

Do I need to go through withdrawal before starting Suboxone?


We prioritize a comprehensive approach to opioid dependence treatment, including the careful management of withdrawal symptoms when initiating Suboxone therapy. Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, plays a crucial role in reducing cravings and managing withdrawal symptoms effectively.

For patients considering Suboxone, it’s essential to understand the importance of starting the medication while in a state of mild to moderate withdrawal. This timing helps prevent precipitated withdrawal, which can occur if Suboxone is introduced while opioids are still active in the system. Precipitated withdrawal happens because buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, displaces full agonists like heroin or prescription painkillers from the brain’s opioid receptors, potentially leading to intense withdrawal symptoms.

We encourage our patients to work closely with our healthcare providers to create a personalized Suboxone initiation plan. This involves stopping the use of other opioids and waiting for withdrawal symptoms to appear, which varies based on the type of opioid used, dosage, and individual metabolism. By following these guidelines, patients can safely transition onto Suboxone, marking the beginning of their recovery journey.

At Marcellus Wellness & Addiction, we’re committed to supporting our patients every step of the way, providing compassionate care and expert guidance tailored to each individual’s needs. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Bronx NY, Brooklyn NY, Manhattan NY, Queens NY, Rockville Centre NY, Staten Island NY, and surrounding areas.