Can Suboxone Treat Alcoholism?
No. Suboxone (buprenorphine and naloxone) is approved for opioid dependence, not for alcohol problems, according to its FDA label. The NIAAA says three medicines are approved in the US to help people stop or reduce drinking: naltrexone, acamprosate and disulfiram, all nonaddictive. Suboxone and alcohol together are dangerous: the label warns of loss of consciousness or death.
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Is Suboxone used for alcohol addiction?
No. The FDA prescribing information says Suboxone (buprenorphine, a partial-opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist) is indicated for the treatment of opioid dependence, as part of a complete plan with counseling and psychosocial support. Alcohol use disorder is not on its label.
Does Suboxone help with alcohol withdrawal?
It is not approved for that. Talk to a doctor about how to stop drinking safely. Mixing Suboxone with alcohol is dangerous: its Medication Guide says drinking alcohol while taking it can lead to loss of consciousness or even death.
Medicines approved for alcohol problems
The NIAAA says three medications are currently approved in the United States to help people stop or reduce their drinking:
- Naltrexone: a pill or injection that reduces the urge to drink
- Acamprosate: a pill that eases negative symptoms during abstinence
- Disulfiram: a pill that causes unpleasant symptoms when alcohol is consumed
All approved medications are nonaddictive, and they can be used alone or together with behavioral treatment and mutual-support groups (NIAAA).
Where to get help
- NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator: finds quality care near you.
- SAMHSA National Helpline (US, free, confidential): 1-800-662-4357.
Not sure whether drinking has become a problem? See the NIAAA’s 11 questions in our article on signs of an alcohol problem.
People also ask
Can Suboxone be used to treat alcoholism?
No. Its FDA label approves it for opioid dependence. Naltrexone, acamprosate and disulfiram are approved for alcohol problems (NIAAA).
Does Suboxone help with alcohol withdrawal?
It is not approved for that, and mixing Suboxone with alcohol can be fatal. Talk to a doctor about stopping drinking safely.
What medication is used for alcohol addiction?
Naltrexone, acamprosate and disulfiram are the three approved in the US; all are nonaddictive (NIAAA).
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