Suboxone contains a combination of medications used to treat opioid addiction. While it isn’t a regularly tested substance, Suboxone can show up on a drug screening.

In this blog, you’ll learn what Suboxone is, what it contains, and why someone would test for Suboxone use.

What is Suboxone?

Suboxone is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD).[1][2] It is made from a combination of two drugs, buprenorphine and naloxone (the latter is sold as a standalone treatment under the brand name Narcan). [3]

Suboxone is a partial opioid agonist that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain.[4] This produces similar effects to a full opioid such as heroin or fentanyl.[5] It also blocks the effects of the opioids above, deterring misuse.

Suboxone also works by:[6]

• Reducing opioid cravings
• Reducing opioid withdrawal symptoms

Suboxone is a very valuable tool in treating opioid use disorder, but it is often used alongside other methods of treatment such as behavioral therapy and counseling.[7] Individuals who use Suboxone must follow a prescribed protocol and work closely with their healthcare provider to reach lasting sobriety.

What is Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)?

According to Stat Pearls, opioid use disorder is defined as the chronic use of opioids that causes clinically significant distress or impairment.[8] This condition currently affects over 16 million people worldwide and more than 2.1 million in the United States alone.[8]

To receive a diagnosis of opioid use disorder, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, a person must have repeated opioid use within 12 months leading to problems with two or more of the following:[9]

• Decreased interest in social or recreational activities
• Continued use despite negative consequences related to physical and psychological health
• Continued opioid use despite interpersonal or social consequences
• Difficulty fulfilling work, home, or school obligations
• Needing a higher dose to achieve the original effects (tolerance)
• Difficulty decreasing opiate use
• Devoting a lot of time to using opiates
• Craving opiates
• Taking more opiates than planned
• Continually using opioids, despite the increased risk of danger, exposes the user to the risk of addiction.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing opiate use

The presence of six or more of these criteria indicates severe OUD.[10]

Signs and Symptoms of Opiate Use Disorder (OUD)

Signs and symptoms of opioid use disorder include, but are not limited to:[8]

• Opioid cravings
• Drug seeking
• Increased legal troubles due to opioid use
• Using numerous Opioid prescriptions from different prescribers
• Withdrawal symptoms when quitting

Physical signs of opioid use disorder include:[8]

• Weight loss
• Drowsiness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Flu-like symptoms
• Lack of hygiene
• Changes in exercise habits
• Decreased libido
• Isolation from loved ones
• Financial difficulties

Can Suboxone Show Up on a Drug Test?

Yes, Suboxone can show up on a drug test.[11] However, standard drug tests, such as a five or 10-panel test, do not screen for Suboxone or its active ingredients. They are more commonly used to detect substances such as cocaine, amphetamines, and marijuana. However, a 12-panel drug test can detect it along with other prescription medications for drug addiction treatment, such as methadone.

Additionally, a hospital can order a blood test to detect the amount of Suboxone a patient has ingested, if it is suspected to have caused a life-threatening side effect or an accident.

Who Tests for Suboxone Use? 

Addiction treatment centers may require patients to undergo routine drug screenings to detect the presence of buprenorphine. This lets them know if the patient is taking Suboxone as prescribed. They may also test for the presence of barbiturates, oxycodone, PCP, benzodiazepines, or their metabolites. A positive result may indicate an ongoing struggle with substance abuse.

Other reasons for testing for the presence of Suboxone include:

• Detecting possible misuse
• Fulfilling the requirements of parole or probation
• Ensuring a substance-free workforce, especially for safety-sensitive positions

It’s important to note that if you have a valid prescription for Suboxone, you are entitled to certain job protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring your rights and security in the workplace.[12]

How Common is a Suboxone Test?

Suboxone drug tests are not common. They are typically only administered to fulfill legal obligations or as part of a personalized opioid use disorder treatment plan. If you are asked what drugs you’re taking during a drug screening, you may want to mention the use of Suboxone, as it can show up on some screenings.

Support for Suboxone Users

Are you using Suboxone to manage a substance use disorder? If so, you might be wondering about other treatment options. At Engage Wellness Missouri, we’re here to help!

Contact us today to learn about the treatment programs we offer to support your journey to sobriety. Together, we can find the most suitable options for your healing and recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions