Suboxone and Zubsolv are medications used to treat opioid use disorder. When combined with a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and monitoring, long term recovery is possible. Knowing the difference of Suboxone vs Zubsolv is key to making the right choice.
Key Facts
- Suboxone and Zubsolv contain buprenorphine, a synthetic opioid.
- Suboxone and Zubsolv also contain naloxone to prevent risks of overdose if the drug is misused.
- Suboxone and Zubsolv are safe and effective in treating opioid use disorders.
- Along with your medical provider, you can determine which treatment suits your individual needs.
Suboxone vs. Zubsolv
Suboxone and Zubsolv are prescription drugs used to treat opioid use disorder. They both contain buprenorphine and naloxone and are used in medication assisted treatment (MAT).
What Are Suboxone and Zubsolv & Who Are They For?
Suboxone and Zybsolv are both FDA approved prescription medicationsused to treat opioid use disorder (OUD).
They help improve withdrawal symptoms, decrease cravings and reduce the risk of overdose death. Both medications contain buprenorphine and naloxone.
Buprenophine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning that it binds to the same receptors as other opioid drugs, including heroin, fentanyl and morphine.
It binds to these receptors without producing the intense euphoric effects that opioids bring about, all while improving withdrawal symptoms and decreasing cravings.
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, which means that it attaches to the brain’s opioid receptors, blocking the “high” associated with opioid use. In Suboxone and Zubsolv, the naloxone works alongside buprenorphine to prevent the risk of misuse.
For example, if a person attempts to use it intravenously, the naloxone activates, blocking buprenorphine’s opioid effects and triggering almost immediate withdrawal symptoms.
While buprenorphine is considered an opioid medication, taking it as directed does not mean you are replacing one addiction for another.
When it is used as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes other evidenced based approaches, it is a beneficial tool in the treatment of OUD and supports long term recovery.
Similarities: How Suboxone and Zubsolv Work
Suboxone and Zubsolv are two FDA approved medications that are used in the treatment of OUD.
Shared Ingredients, Benefits & Risks
Both Suboxone and Zubsolv contain buprenorphine, which is a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, which is an opioid blocker.
They act on the same brain receptors to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, stabilize mood and lower your risk for relapsing and overdosing.
These drugs are available on an outpatient basis, making it convenient for you to continue your daily responsibilities at work, school or home.
Both Suboxone and Zubsolv have the potential for side effects. You may experience headaches, nausea, constipation and sleep disturbances while taking these medications.
More serious side effects may include respiratory depression, diversion and misuse. It is important that the medications are stored properly and used only under medical supervision.
Differences You’ll Notice in Day to Day Use
While Suboxone and Zubsolv have the same ingredients and mode of action, there are day to day differences you may notice when taking them.
These differences are related to how the drugs are formulated, the amount you take, flavoring and how they are administered.
Formulation, Dosing, Taste & Bioavailability
Suboxone is typically prescribed as a sublingual film or a tablet, while Zubsolv is available only in a sublingual tablet. Each route takes a different amount of time to start working
Zubsolv typically takes about 5 minutes to be absorbed, whereas Suboxone takes between 8 and 15 minutes. You must let them sit under your tongue for the specified time to be properly absorbed.
Zubsolv has higher bioavailability than Suboxone because it delivers more medication in a smaller dose. Both medications will remain in your system for 12 hours or more. Because of this difference, dosing conversions must be done by your doctor.
If you prefer a minty taste, choose Zubsolv. If you desire a citrus taste, choose Suboxone. Suboxone’s tablets and films are bigger than the Zubsolv tablet. In terms of cost, Suboxone is typically cheaper than Zubsolv.
If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose unless instructed to do so by your doctor. Take your next dose at the regularly scheduled time.
Choosing Between Suboxone vs. Zubsolv
Suboxone and Zubsolv share many of the same characteristics and benefits. So, how do you decide which one is best for you?
Factors Your Provider Considers
Your doctor will work with you to determine which medication best fits your situation.
Some things to consider when determining which drug to take include the severity of your opioid use disorder and if you have any mental health or co occurring physical conditions.
For example, anxiety, depression, or other mental health disorders or physical health conditions, like liver disease or if you are pregnant.
Your doctor will ask you patient centered questions to decide which medicine is appropriate, including your taste or route preferences, if you have any dental issues, what your work or family schedule looks like and any history of misuse or diversion.
Generally, Suboxone tablets cost less than Zubsolv, which may be a factor in your choice.
It is essential to check your insurance coverage and copays associated with the prescription before starting a program. For both drugs, your pharmacist or doctor may help you obtain manufacturer savings programs to reduce costs.
Another consideration is availability. Suboxone may be more available than Zubsolv.
Suboxone vs Zubsolv FAQs
Both Suboxone and Zubsolv are equal in effectiveness and safety when taken as prescribed and combined with ongoing treatment that includes counseling.
Individual differences in metabolism, co occurring disorders, and overall health may cause slightly different responses, but it doesn’t make one better than the other.
Yes, you can switch between medicines, but it must be done under medical supervision, following a specific plan that keeps you safe.
Dose adjustments may be necessary due to differences in bioavailability.
Anytime you stop or change a medicine with buprenorphine, your doctor will monitor you for withdrawal, cravings and sedation.For some, switching can happen over a few days. For others, it can take weeks.
Generic Suboxone tablets often cost less and are more available in pharmacies.However, you may be able to obtain savings cards for Zublov, bringing the cost down.
Check with your health insurance provider about plan formularies, prior authorization rules and in network requirements.
Find Treatment Near You
If you think you are ready to try Suboxone or Zubsolv, call
800-985-8516
( 
Sponsored Helpline )
to speak to someone who can guide you to the right treatment provider.
Explore the Rehab.com online directory to locate a treatment center to meet your needs. It allows you to narrow your search by location, level of care, insurance coverage and special programs.
You can start overcoming your opioid use disorder. Reach out today.
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