Side Effects of Suboxone

Some of the common side effects of Suboxone sublingual film include: ^[1]

• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Headache
• Sweating
• Swollen or painful tongue
• Numbness of the mouth
• Redness inside the mouth
• Lightheadedness (feeling intoxicated)
• Poor attention
• Palpitations
• Insomnia
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness and fainting
• Sleepiness

Besides the risk of Suboxone dependence and addiction, the use of this medication can also cause some serious health effects. The most worrisome side effect of Suboxone is respiratory depression (slowed breathing). This risk is especially high when Suboxone is taken with other medicines like benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Ativan) that are also CNS (central nervous system) depressants.

Also, in some people, Suboxone can lead to liver problems, a drop in blood pressure, or symptoms of opioid withdrawal. An allergic reaction to Suboxone can cause symptoms such as hives, skin rash, facial swelling, wheezing, low blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. An allergic reaction to Suboxone is a medical emergency and warrants immediate medical attention.

Last updated: March 21, 2024

Hailey Shafir, M.Ed., LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS

Hailey Shafir is a licensed addiction specialist and mental health counselor. She graduated from North Carolina State University with a master of education in clinical mental health counseling in 2012, and has developed deep expertise in the areas of mental health, behavioral addictions and substance abuse. She is passionate about using this knowledge to raise awareness, provide clear and accurate information, and to improve the quality of treatment for these disorders.

Hailey is an LCMHCS (license number: S9539) under the North Carolina Board of Mental Health Counselors, and an LCAS (ID: LCAS-21333) and CSS (ID: CCS-20721) under the North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board.