The patients who are undergoing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) take both Suboxone and Xanax because it increases the effect of opioids. But it’s important to understand these medicines and taking them together can increase the side effects of the medicines which can lead to dangerous health risks like severe respiratory depression, coma, or death. In this blog, we discuss Xanax and Suboxone and whether can you take Xanax with Suboxone or not.
Suboxone is an FDA-approved prescription medicine used to treat Opioid addiction and ADHD. It contains two drugs buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is an opioid partial agonist and Naloxone is an Opioid receptor. Suboxone blocks the pain signal in the brain.
Xanax is a benzodiazepine class of anti-anxiety drugs used to treat GAD (generalized anxiety disorders) and panic attacks. It works by enhancing the neurotransmitter GABA activity in the brain leading to reduced anxiety and creating a calming effect.
Xanax Vs Suboxone
Xanax and Suboxone both are central nervous system (CNS) depressants. But these medicines are very different from each other.
| Xanax | Suboxone | |
| Drug Class | Benzodiazepine | Opioid |
| Ingredients | Alprazolam | Buprenorphine and naloxone |
| Controlled Substance | Schedule IV | Schedule III |
Uses | Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Attacks, Insomnia | Treatment of Opioid Disorder |
Effects | Increase the activity of GABA in the brain and originate calm and relaxation | Attach to opioid receptors and block the pain signal in the brain. |
Side Effects | Confusion, Difficulty, concentrating, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Poor coordination, Slurred speech, Low blood pressure | Dizziness, Drowsiness, Difficulty concentrating, Headache, Constipation, Nausea, Sweating, Irregular heartbeat |
Mixing Suboxone And Xanax
Sometimes Opioid patients suffer from anxiety, to treat this condition they use this combination. Xanax is used to relieve anxiety symptoms and Suboxone is used to treat addiction. A combination of Suboxone and Xanax gets you high. That does not mean that you can mix them together. Combing them together can cause serious consequences.
Suboxone doesn’t create a higher euphoria, so people who take it with Xanax can not experience the euphoria they seek. Both Suboxone and Xanax can have central nervous system depressant effects, and combining them may increase the risk of serious side effects such as CNS depression, respiratory depression, overdose, sedation, and addiction.
Always avoid taking Suboxone and Xanax together. If your doctor prescribes these both medicines then tell your doctor all the medicines list you are currently taking and your medical history. Also, ask your doctor about the danger or risk of medicines that you need to be avoided. We try to give information about some dangers or risks that can occur when you take the Xanax and Suboxone combo together.
The Danger of Mixing Xanax And Suboxone
If you take Suboxone and Xanax individually then they are very effective medications. Mixing them together can increase the risk of overdose, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Stopping any one of the medicines can cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Slowed brain activity
- Severe drowsiness
- Extreme dizziness
- Breathing problems
- Reduced respiratory functioning
- Increased Sedation
- Coma
- Death
- Enhance the risk of Overdose: Combining two central nervous system depressants increases the risk of overdose, which can be lethal. Signs of Suboxone and Xanax overdose are unusual dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, extreme lethargy, slow, difficult breathing, and inability to wake up.
When taken separately within their prescribed doses, both medications carry their own risks and should only be taken as directed by a healthcare professional. If you take them together then it is important to tell your doctor to ensure your safety. If you suffer any overdose sign then immediately contact your doctor or healthcare provider.
Suboxone And Xanax Interactions: Drug & Food
If a person suffering from both opioid addiction and anxiety then they should avoid Suboxone and Xanax combination. Other food and drug interactions may enhance the effect of the medicines. For example, Xanax and alcohol or other benzos are deadly combinations. So here we look at some drugs and food interactions with this combination.
Other medicines and food that may interact with this combination:
- Sedatives
- Antidepressants
- Antihistamines
- Other opioids [Klonopin or Valium]
- Common over-the-counter medications
- Other benzos
- Pain killer medications
- Muscle relaxants
- Alcohol
It’s important to know all the medicines that you can take or not during medications. Tell your doctor all the medicines you are currently taking. Never take any medicines without consulting with your doctor or healthcare professionals.
Can You Take Suboxone And Xanax Together
It is uncommon to take Xanax and Suboxone together without proper supervision from healthcare professionals. Both medicines are central nervous system depressants, which means they slow down brain activity. When taken together, they can potentially increase each other’s effects, leading to an increased risk of respiratory depression, drowsiness, CNS depression, and other serious side effects.
Always follow your prescribed dosages because a higher dose of any one medicine can overdose which can lead to slowed breathing, low blood pressure, coma, or death. If you are taking Suboxone for opioid dependence and also have anxiety or panic disorders requiring Xanax, then consult with your healthcare provider. They can check various factors like medical history, weight, and patient condition, and determine whether it is necessary to make any adjustments to your medications.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Suboxone And Xanax
When you stop or reduce the use of these medicines, withdrawal symptoms may occur. Withdrawal symptoms depend on various factors like dosage, weight, age, duration of use, and medical history. Here are some withdrawal signs associated with Suboxone and Xanax:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle aches and pains
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Diarrhea
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Irritability or mood swings
- Headaches
- Seizures
If you see any of these signs in patients then immediately consult with your doctor or healthcare provider. They can suggest appropriate solutions that are safe for you.
Safety Tips:
If a healthcare provider prescribes these medications in combination for a specific reason, it is crucial to follow their guidance closely. Here are some safety tips if you are instructed to take Suboxone and Alprazolam together:
- Only take these as prescribed by your doctor or healthcare experts.
- Follow the dosage and time exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Pay attention to any unusual symptoms or side effects and immediately report them to your doctor.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding conditions avoid these combinations.
- Avoid alcohol and other medications while taking these medications.
- Maintain regular follow-up appointments with your doctor or healthcare provider.
Always strictly follow your doctor’s guidance and instructions when you take these medicines. It can minimize the risk of serious consequences. Never abuse your prescribed medicines.
Conclusion
We hope that the above information is helpful to you. Never take Suboxone and Xanax together without a doctor or healthcare provider’s permission. If you require any help related to this topic. Then feel free to contact us now.