Also called: Subs, Subbies, Oranges, Strips, Sobos, Stop Signs, Boxes, Bupe
Quitting Suboxone is possible, but it needs care. Since it’s an opioid medication used to treat opioid use disorder, stopping too quickly can trigger withdrawal and increase relapse risk.
⚠️ Important First Step
Always consult a doctor or addiction specialist before tapering. Medical supervision helps reduce withdrawal, supports your mental and physical health, and lowers relapse risk.
1. Prepare Yourself
Talk to your prescriber: Share your desire to taper. They’ll create a plan based on your dose and duration of use.
Build support: Include your therapist, support group, or trusted friends/family.
Stabilize first: Ensure your current dose keeps cravings and withdrawal at bay before reducing.
2. Tapering Off (Recommended Approach)
Go slow: Doctors usually recommend tapering over weeks or months.
Typical schedule:
Reduce dose 10–25% every 1–2 weeks.
Once under 2 mg daily, taper much slower (drops as small as 0.25–0.5 mg).
Final stretch is hardest: The last reductions from 2 mg → 0 mg can be challenging. Some people cut films or use compounded doses for micro-tapering.
3. Managing Withdrawal Symptoms
Even with a slow taper, you may experience:
Anxiety, irritability, mood swings
Body aches, runny nose, sweating
Trouble sleeping
Digestive issues
Ways to manage:
Non-addictive medications: Clonidine, gabapentin, hydroxyzine, loperamide (for diarrhea), ibuprofen (for aches).
Lifestyle support: Hydration, nutrition, exercise, mindfulness/meditation.
Sleep hygiene: Keep routines, avoid caffeine at night.
4. After Stopping Suboxone
High relapse risk in the first months — stay connected with support.
Recovery support: Therapy, meetings (NA, SMART Recovery), or apps like Sober Sidekick.
Medication options: Ask your doctor about naltrexone (Vivitrol), a non-opioid relapse prevention option.
✅ Acceptance Criteria for Success
Reduce Suboxone dose under medical supervision with minimal withdrawal.
Avoid relapse into opioid use.
Maintain a support system for ongoing recovery.
Example 12-Week Suboxone Taper Plan (Starting at 8 mg/day)
⚠️ Disclaimer: This is a general example. Your taper should be adjusted by your prescriber based on your dose, length of use, and response.
Phase 1: Stabilization
Week 1–2: 8 mg → 6 mg
Week 3–4: 6 mg → 4 mg
Tip: Check in with your doctor; slow down if cravings or withdrawal appear.
Phase 2: Mid-Range Reduction
Week 5–6: 4 mg → 3 mg
Week 7: 3 mg → 2 mg
Tip: Some people pause at 2–3 mg to stabilize before moving further.
Phase 3: Low-Dose Slowdown (Hardest Part)
Week 8: 2 mg → 1.5 mg
Week 9: 1.5 mg → 1 mg
Week 10: 1 mg → 0.75 mg
Week 11: 0.75 mg → 0.5 mg
Week 12: 0.5 mg → stop
Key Tips:
Go slower if needed, especially below 2 mg.
Micro-tapering: Cut films into 0.25–0.5 mg pieces near the end.
Pause if struggling: Stay at the current dose until stable.
Support meds: Clonidine, hydroxyzine, gabapentin, or sleep aids can ease withdrawal.
✅ Safe Tapering Checklist
Reductions happen gradually (10–25% at a time).
Cravings and withdrawal are minimal/manageable.
No relapse to opioids.
Regular contact with your prescriber is maintained.
Next Step Options
Choose a taper plan that fits your pace:
Faster taper: 8–10 weeks
Slower taper: 16–24 weeks
Legal Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider regarding tapering Suboxone or other medications.