Recovery from Suboxone Insomnia at Drug Treatment Centers in Chattanooga, TN

In the first quarter of 2023, Hamilton County, where Chattanooga is located, had 485 emergency room visits related to suspected non fatal drug overdoses. Many of these involved opioids, which were a significant cause of the visits. [1] Due to the escalating opioid crisis, there is a heightened demand for medication-assisted treatment (MAT), including the use of Suboxone. This approach integrates pharmaceuticals with comprehensive therapy to effectively address addiction and support long-term recovery. However, we must be aware of its side effects, just as with any other medication. Buprenorphine/naloxone, sold under the brand name Suboxone, can cause sleep problems such as increased wakefulness, reduced deep sleep, and delayed sleep onset. This condition is also commonly known as Suboxone insomnia.

In addiction treatment, the integration of medication with therapeutic interventions is essential for achieving optimal outcomes. Medications, while crucial in managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, are most effective when paired with behavioral therapies that address the psychological aspects of addiction. Healthcare professionals must thoroughly evaluate the benefits versus risks associated with any medication before prescribing. This careful deliberation ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s needs, enhancing the likelihood of a successful recovery. It is also crucial for individuals seeking treatment to choose Chattanooga drug treatment centers that offer comprehensive support.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, exploring drug treatment centers in Tennessee is a crucial step toward recovery. Reach out today to discover the resources and compassionate care available to guide you through the healing process.

What are the TN Faces of Opioids?

“TN Faces of Opioids” is an initiative by the Tennessee Department of Health that aims to humanize the opioid epidemic by sharing personal stories from individuals across the state. This project focuses on highlighting the experiences of Tennesseans who have been directly affected by the opioid crisis, whether through personal struggle, recovery, or the loss of loved ones. By presenting these stories, the initiative seeks to put a face on the epidemic, fostering a deeper understanding and connection within communities. It also serves to showcase the efforts being made in every county and community to combat this widespread issue, illustrating both the challenges and the progress being made toward ending the opioid crisis in Tennessee.

The statistics below reveal the impact and ongoing challenge of Tennessee with opioids [2]:

• Tennessee Opioid Overdose Deaths in 2020: 2,388
• Painkiller Prescriptions in Tennessee in 2021: 4,715,782
• Babies Born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome in Tennessee in 2020: 824

Meet Adrienne. Adrienne lost her mother in February 2019 at age 62 due to complications from her final surgery aimed at alleviating persistent pain. Her mother’s struggle with pain began with various surgeries—including back surgery, pain device implants, and ankle fusion—which only shifted her pain rather than resolving it. This cycle led to a prescription opioid addiction that persisted for nearly 15 years, during which she heavily relied on medications like morphine and Percocet to manage her pain and withdrawal symptoms. The addiction not only strained her physically and mentally but also imposed a significant burden on her family, who often faced her physical and verbal outbursts.

One harrowing memory for Adrienne occurred during her son’s 5th-grade graduation, where her mother, under the influence of medications, fell asleep and had to be carried out, causing a scene. Despite several attempts at rehabilitation, it became apparent that recovery was unattainable, and her health continued to decline, leading to her eventual death. This long, painful experience left Adrienne with profound grief and the distressing anticipation of her mother’s passing.

The trauma and impact of addiction extend beyond the individual, profoundly affecting family and loved ones. However, recovery is attainable when individuals acknowledge the need for help and actively seek assistance. Embracing this reality is a crucial first step toward healing and rehabilitation, offering hope for a restored and healthier future. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), in 2021, 94% of individuals aged 12 or older with a substance use disorder did not receive any treatment. [3] We must address this by encouraging ourselves or our loved ones to pursue healing, as most people with a substance use disorder who didn’t seek treatment at a specialized facility did not believe they needed any treatment. 

When our loved ones seek help for addiction, it is also crucial to ensure they adhere to their treatment plans for optimal results. For example, if persistent insomnia from Suboxone treatment begins to affect their mental and physical well-being, it is essential to consider alternative options. Monitoring their progress and adjusting treatment strategies as necessary can significantly enhance recovery outcomes.

How Long Does Suboxone Insomnia Last?

Suboxone, a medication commonly used in the treatment of opioid addiction, includes buprenorphine and naloxone as its active ingredients. It is highly effective in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, facilitating a smoother transition to sobriety. However, one of the side effects associated with Suboxone is insomnia. Typically, this side effect is more prominent during the initial phase of treatment as the body adjusts to the medication. For many, this insomnia tends to subside within a few weeks as their body’s biochemistry stabilizes. However, for some individuals, sleep disturbances may persist longer, influenced by factors such as dosage levels, overall health, concurrent use of other medications, and personal sensitivity to Suboxone’s components.

Addressing Suboxone-induced insomnia involves a multidisciplinary approach, emphasizing both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Healthcare providers may adjust the medication dosage or timing to mitigate its impact on sleep. Moreover, incorporating sleep hygiene practices is crucial; these include:

• Establishing a regular sleep schedule.
• Creating a restful environment.
• Limiting exposure to screens before bedtime.
• Engaging in relaxing activities such as reading or meditation before sleep.

In some cases, short-term use of non-addictive sleep aids might be recommended under close medical supervision. Patients must communicate openly with their healthcare providers about their sleep issues to tailor an appropriate and effective intervention.

If you are also seeking a supportive environment to maintain abstinence after completing a treatment program, search for halfway houses in Chattanooga. These facilities are essential in aftercare, offering a structured yet nurturing environment to help bridge the transition from treatment to routine daily life. Halfway houses provide the necessary support and stability to reinforce the skills and behaviors learned in treatment, aiding long-term recovery.

Why Are They Discontinuing Suboxone?

In Tennessee, the discontinuation of Suboxone and Subutex results from a new law known as the “Addiction Treatment Act of 2015”. This legislation aims to address the high prescribing numbers of buprenorphine-containing products (such as Suboxone and Subutex) and curb their potential for abuse. Here are the key points:

• Prescribing Restrictions: The law restricts the prescribing of buprenorphine products to uses recognized by the FDA, specifically for addiction treatment. Previously, patients had been prescribed these medications for chronic pain management, but that is no longer allowed under Tennessee law.
• High Prescription Rates: Tennessee had a significant number of prescriptions for Suboxone and Subutex, which raised concerns about the extent of prescription drug abuse in the state. By limiting the use of these drugs to addiction treatment, the law aims to bring over-prescribing under control.
• Impact on Patients: Some addiction specialists believe the legislation will help patients access rehab facilities and treatment centers more effectively. However, others express concerns about the potential side effects of such restrictive laws on the availability of replacement drugs.
• Subutex Usage: The law specifies that Subutex can only be used for nursing pregnant women or individuals allergic to Suboxone.

The discontinuation of Suboxone and Subutex in Tennessee is part of an effort to address opioid addiction while ensuring responsible prescribing practices.

The Risks of Suboxone Insomnia and Effective Chattanooga Drug Treatment Centers in Tennessee

Suboxone, a medication frequently used to treat opioid addiction, combines buprenorphine and naloxone. While Suboxone effectively reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings, one of its less desired side effects is insomnia. This condition can pose considerable challenges for individuals in recovery, as quality sleep is vital for physical and psychological well-being. In August 2015, the Tennessee State Legislature unanimously approved the Addiction Treatment Act. This law restricts the prescription of the drugs Suboxone and Subutex only to be used for addiction treatment, not for any other purposes. [4] Suboxone and Subutex are associated with significant side effects, including the potential for drug dependency. Given these risks, stringent regulatory measures are essential to ensure safe and controlled use.

In response to these challenges, drug treatment centers in Chattanooga are equipped with comprehensive strategies to manage side effects like insomnia while addressing the root causes of opioid dependency. These centers adopt a multidimensional treatment approach that includes medication management, behavioral therapies, and lifestyle counseling to support holistic recovery. By integrating practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which helps modify thoughts and behaviors that disrupt sleep, these Tennessee drug treatment centers enhance the likelihood of successful recovery. Furthermore, the centers are staffed by healthcare professionals specializing in addiction treatment, providing personalized care plans sensitive to the complexities of each patient’s situation. 

Resources:

[1] Q1 2023 Drug Overdose Surveillance Report.pdf – Hamilton County Health Department

[2] Tennessee Faces of Opioids – TN (.gov)

[3] SAMHSA Announces National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) Results Detailing Mental Illness and Substance Use Levels in 2021

[4] SB 0871 – Tennessee General Assembly (.gov)