Category: pharmacological
Aliases: Subutex, Suboxone (+naloxone), Sublocade (depot), Belbuca
Partial µ-opioid agonist with high receptor affinity → displaces full agonists like heroin / fentanyl, producing withdrawal if given too early. Ceiling effect on respiratory depression above ~32 mg — major safety advantage for OUD treatment. κ-antagonism may contribute to antidepressant / anti-anhedonia effects. Suboxone formulation adds naloxone to deter IV misuse.
SL: 30h, IV: 30h, TD: 38.1h