If you’re looking for information on how to taper off Suboxone…you’ve just landed on an article that can CHANGE YOUR LIFE. I’ve spent years perfecting the art of Suboxone recovery.
This is now the fourth article I’ve written on getting off Suboxone, and it’s BY FAR the best one yet. In fact, I was going to make this an eBook and sell it…but then I realized not as many people would read it and benefit from this Epic Step-by-Step Suboxone Taper Plan.
From this point on, whenever somebody asks me how to taper off Suboxone, I will first direct them to this article as a great place to start! This plan is detailed, effective, powerful, and TRULY INSPIRATIONAL.
Step 1: Make a Decision!!!
Learning how to taper off Suboxone is not difficult. Anyone can read this plan I’ve created and understand the principles I teach. That’s the easy part.
But I can tell you right now with absolute certainty…most of the people on Suboxone reading this will not get off medication and stay clean for life.
Why??? Because most individuals on Suboxone never make it A MUST. Rather, they tell themselves things like I SHOULD get off Suboxone. They hope they will be successful, and when they are not, they take it as a failure.
But I’ll tell you right now, every time you fail you learn something. You learn what doesn’t work. Then the next time you try it you have less anxiety. That’s progress in every sense of the word.
Do you think I was able to get off Suboxone the first time I ever tried? No way!!! I fell FLAT ON MY FACE.
Life will always knock you down; that’s inevitable. But it’s not whether or not you get knocked down…it’s how many times you are able to get back up, brush yourself off, learn from your mistakes, and try even harder (+ smarter) the next time.
In the end, I was successful at getting off Suboxone because somewhere along the line I made a decision that I didn’t want to be on medication.
One of my top values in life is health, so I couldn’t stand the thought of being on a medication that altered my brain chemistry…especially one that made me go through a horrific opiate withdrawal syndrome if I stopped taking it!
Furthermore, Suboxone gave me side-effects; even at a dosage of 1 mg. It gave me red and flaky skin, and even though I could still “perform,” I had NO SEX DRIVE whatsoever. 😥
Make Tapering Off Suboxone A MUST
If you’re serious about learning how to taper off Suboxone and doing whatever it takes to achieve your goal, this plan is for you. If you want to be successful, you’ll need to decide right here and now that getting off Suboxone is a MUST, not a SHOULD.
Get out a pen and piece of paper and write down all of the reasons why you MUST taper off Suboxone. Commit to your goal. Know that you might fail several times, but as long as you keep going for it and learning from your mistakes, you’re sure to succeed in the long run.
To help increase your chance of succeeding the first time, use the following strategies I’ve outlined for you. They can give your body and mind a significant boost; thus helping you feel happy and energized while tapering off Suboxone.
Step 2: Develop A Strategic Suboxone Taper Schedule
When people ask me how to taper off Suboxone, I tell them one of the things they’ll need is a strategic Suboxone schedule. This is by no means the only thing necessary (though many people believe so)…but it’s often a great place to start.
Tapering is systemically reducing the amount of Suboxone medication at regular, preassigned intervals and dosage decreases. Tapering Suboxone is preferable to coming off cold-turkey because it’s much less of a system-shock to your brain chemistry, thus reducing withdrawal symptoms.
Suboxone Taper Studies
In one large study in 2010, persons tapering with buprenorphine during a nine-month period, whether initially or after a period of substantial improvement, led to nearly universal relapse.
In another study, two groups of opioid-addicted young adults were evaluated to monitor the effectiveness of different taper approaches. One group was detoxed for two weeks.
The other was given Suboxone for nine weeks then tapered for three. The results showed that the longer taper was more effective, although after six, nine, and twelve-month evaluations there were increased rates of opioid use in both groups.
Note: Many other studies look similar to these. The results confirm the poor prognosis. Opioid dependence is, in fact, a chronic, relapsing condition. However, this is why I said that using a strategic Suboxone schedule is simply not enough. In the steps that follow this one, you’ll learn how to harness the power of nutrition, supplementation, exercise, and more to improve your chances of getting off AND staying off Suboxone for good!
Suboxone Taper Schedules
Based on the outcome of the second study mentioned above, along with my personal experience helping people taper off Suboxone while working as a counselor at an Opiate Treatment Program (OTP), it appears that 2-6 months is an optimal time to taper for most individuals.
I’ve learned that most people can generally taper off Suboxone with ease until they reach about 2 mg.
At this point on the taper, it usually becomes increasingly difficult to get energy, and many individuals end up stuck on medication for fear of feeling sick and exhausted.
The following tips can help you taper off Suboxone until you reach the 2 mg mark:
- Use the least amount of medication possible to feel well enough to get through the day.
- Resist urges to use a little extra when you’re not feeling great – This messes with the taper.
- Try to take it only once every 24 hours.
- Listen to your body and adjust tapering speed as needed.
- And don’t obsess about it like this lady in the picture below!!!
Note: Tapering is usually not too difficult for most people until somewhere around 2-4 mg. At this point, any decreases are usually noticeable and can be difficult to adjust to.
A conservative Suboxone taper schedule I recommend from 2 mg down is:
- Days 1-14: 2 mg
- Days 15-28: 1.5 mg
- Days 29-42: 1.0 mg
- Days 43-66: 0.5 mg
At this point you start dosing on every other day, rather than daily:
- Day 67: 0.0 mg
- Day 68: 0.5 mg
- Day 69: 0.0 mg
- Day 70: 0.5 mg
- Day 71: 0.0 mg
- Day 72: 0.5 mg
- Day 73: 0.0 mg
- Day 74: 0.5 mg
Next you start dosing every third day:
- Days 75-76: 0.0 mg
- Day 77: 0.5 mg
- Day 78-79: 0.0 mg
- Day 80: 0.25 mg
- Days 81-82: 0.0 mg
- Day 83: 0.25 mg
- Days 84-85: 0.0 mg
- Day 86: 0.25 mg
To taper off Suboxone completely, you go three days with no medication, then take one last dose:
- Days 87-89: 0.0 mg
- Day 90: 0.25 mg = “Final Dose”
Note: If this is too drawn out for you, simply adjust the frequency of decreases to every 10 or 7 days from 2 mg down to 0.0 mg. I used 14 days as an example of a very conservative taper. Also, you can jump off at an even lower dose (.125 mg, .063 mg and down) of Suboxone if you want. Click on the link below to watch an awesome YouTube video showing you how to cut your Suboxone strips down to the desired amount.
Suboxone Film Cutting Guide: Video Tutorial>>
And Remember…
- This is just a sample of what a Suboxone taper looks like – You might want to change it up to fit your individual needs.
- I broke up the Suboxone dosing to every other day and every third or fourth day at the end because this method works wonders.
- If you don’t harness the power of the following steps with this Suboxone taper schedule, it won’t be nearly as effective.
Step 3: Learn How Suboxone Affects Your Brain
If you really want to know how to taper off Suboxone effectively, I believe it’s important for you to have at least a basic understanding of how brain chemistry can become deficient while taking Suboxone or other opioids.
The following information can help you to better understand why it’s so difficult to quit Suboxone and stay clean long-term.
There are essentially two primary disruptions in the body from the continued use of Suboxone:
- Endorphin deficiency
- Dopamine deficiency
Endorphins and dopamine are neurotransmitters, which are substances that transmit nerve impulses across a synapse. The brain uses neurotransmitters to tell your heart to beat, your lungs to breath, and your stomach to digest.
They also play a HUGE role in mood, concentration, sleep and weight, and can cause a number of negative consequences when they become out of balance.
Brain chemistry can become disrupted in the following ways:
- Prolonged use of alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes
- Toxins in the environment
- Physical or emotional stress
- Genetic predispositions
- Nutritional deficiencies
Note: It is estimated that 86% of Americans have suboptimal neurotransmitter levels, and in opiate abusers…I’m sure it’s 100%.
There are two types of neurotransmitters:
- Inhibitory – Calms the brain and acts as a mental relaxant
- Excitatory – Stimulates the brain
Note: As I stated earlier, the continued use of Suboxone or other opioids causes two primary deficiencies: endorphin (inhibitory) and dopamine (excitatory and inhibitory).
Endorphins
Endorphins are our natural painkillers (natural morphine). Our bodies release endorphins when we exercise. Perhaps you’ve heard of “runners high”, which describes a euphoric feeling produced by the massive production of endorphins after running long distances.
Endorphins promote joy, euphoria, and contentment; and that leads us to why opiates make you feel so good…
Different drugs mimic different neurotransmitters. Suboxone and other opioids specifically mimic endorphins. That’s why opioids are so beneficial at relieving pain and producing euphoria. When Suboxone or another opioid is taken, the body produces massive amounts of endorphins in quantities our bodies weren’t designed to handle.
If you use opioids consistently over a period of time, the body starts making more opioid receptors, and that’s how tolerance is developed. Now the brain has become dependent on opioids to produce endorphins, and it stops making them naturally.
The problem arises when someone on Suboxone or other opioids lowers their dosage considerably or comes off completely. You are now supplying your body with fewer endorphins from the drugs, but your brain doesn’t supply you with the rest.
Your brain short circuits, and therein lies the problem. What results is a massive endorphin deficiency leading to increased sensitivity to physical and emotional pain, among other problems.
Dopamine
Dopamine is our main focus neurotransmitter. Dopamine is also responsible for our drive or desire to get things done…our motivation. Dopamine lifts the dark clouds of depression, is responsible for feelings of pleasure, and plays a role in the “reward system” in the brain. Prolonged use of Suboxone or other opioids leads to continuous spikes in dopamine levels.
Over time, the brain eventually adjusts natural production of the neurotransmitter to compensate for the presence of drugs. Due to both the over-activation of dopamine during periods of opiate intoxication and long-term changes in brain chemistry, natural dopamine levels become lowered and depleted. Once your dopamine levels are depleted, it’s virtually impossible to experience pleasure without using the drug.
Things that used to provide you with pleasure no longer do so:
- Job promotion
- Your kid does well in a soccer game
- Listening to your favorite music
You no longer derive enjoyment from these activities. It now takes a huge spike in dopamine (drugs, sex, gambling etc.) to feel pleasure. This is one of the top reasons why individuals often relapse within a few months of getting off Suboxone…they have anhedonia (pleasure deafness), life basically sucks, and they are also sensitive to physical and emotional pain due to the endorphin deficiency.
Enough is enough…they feel like they can’t go on feeling so bad every day, so they use…thus, the cycle continues. Fortunately, you’ve read this far…and now I’m going to teach you how to break the cycle!
Step 4: Harness The Power Of Nutrition
Nutrition plays a critical role when you’re trying to taper off Suboxone. A big reason why some people turn to addictive substances in the first place is that they are not getting the nutrients they need from their diets.
This can result in a variety of health problems. When this lack of nutrition leads to disruptions in brain chemistry…anxiety, depression, and other mental issues can develop. If you’re serious about learning how to taper off Suboxone like a champion, the following nutritional guidelines can help you achieve your goal.
Amino Acids & Neurotransmitters
Tapering off Suboxone puts a huge strain on your brain chemistry. Remember learning about the opioid-induced endorphin/dopamine deficiency from Step 3? You might have thought to yourself: “Well that’s just great! But how am I supposed to correct these imbalances?! 🙁
There are several ways, some of the most powerful being:
- Regular exercise
- Supplements that restore healthy neurotransmitter production
- A healthy diet rich in quality proteins
Note: I will cover supplements and exercise in the following steps…but for now, let’s really dive into the basics of a Suboxone taper nutritional protocol.
There’s so much information available on different types of diets that it has actually made my brain hurt! Oh, my oh my…which one to choose?! After years of trial and error, I finally found a great way of eating healthy for my unique biochemistry, and I urge you to do the same.
At this moment, however, let’s concentrate on a solid dietary plan to restore healthy brain function, shall we? The foundation of this nutritional protocol involves the regular consumption of high-quality proteins. Protein foods are made up of amino acids.
The body converts these amino acids into neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are responsible for many functions, and many of these chemical messengers significantly affect our behavior and moods.
Below is a list of the most important neurotransmitters for mental health:
- Endorphins/enkephalins – Our natural painkillers; they promote feelings of physical relaxation, joy, and produce a natural high.
- Serotonin – Responsible for feelings of being emotionally relaxed and happy.
- Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) – Mentally relaxing, your brains natural Valium.
- Catecholamines – Dopamine is in this class of neurotransmitters; responsible for concentration and euphoria.
Note: A deficiency in these neurotransmitters can lead to you experiencing the opposite effect. For example, if you aren’t producing enough catecholamines you will tend to be tired and have a hard time concentrating. If you are deficient in GABA this can easily lead to anxiety. A lack of serotonin can cause depression. Become deficient in endorphins and you risk becoming overly sensitive to both physical and emotional pain.
Drugs Mimic Neurotransmitters
If someone were abusing amphetamine or methamphetamine drugs, they would become deficient in the class of neurotransmitters known as catecholamines. Alcoholics and individuals taking Xanax or other benzodiazepine drugs find themselves suffering from a GABA deficiency once they stop using these substances.
To view an epic table showing the relationship between drugs and neurotransmitters, click on the link below:
Impacts of Drugs on Neurotransmission>>
When you start to taper off Suboxone, there will come a point along your taper in which the endorphin/dopamine levels in your brain will diminish.
This is the main reason why many people end up stuck on Suboxone for years; when they taper off Suboxone they feel horrible and life basically SUCKS, so they up their dose to feel good again…and the cycle continues.
Eat Quality Proteins
Whenever someone asks me how to taper off Suboxone, I teach them about the benefits of eating a diet rich with quality proteins. Protein contains amino acids, so it has a powerful effect on enhancing mood by increasing neurotransmitters in the brain; including endorphins and dopamine.
While you’re tapering off Suboxone, it can be very helpful to consume a high amino acid diet. You certainly don’t have to eat like this for the rest of your life, but it can boost your mood and energy levels a great deal while coming off Suboxone.
Here are some examples of foods that are high in protein:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Fish
- Beef
- Cottage Cheese
- Greek Yogurt
Here are some examples of Suboxone taper meals:
- Breakfast: Three-egg omelet with sauteed veggies, two pieces of turkey bacon, and homemade breakfast potatoes; or a smoothie with apple juice, strawberries, banana, and whey protein powder.
- Lunch: Grilled chicken sandwich on a whole wheat bun with lettuce, tomato, mayo and melted cheese, and a garden salad on the side.
- Dinner: Baked salmon with a sweet potato and steamed asparagus.
Note: For healthy brain chemistry functioning while tapering off Suboxone, consume at least 20-30 grams of quality protein 2-3 times per day. If you’re vegetarian, choose foods such as legumes, quinoa, eggs, etc.
Consume Fruits, Veggies, and Healthy Fats
If you want to learn how to taper off Suboxone the healthy way, make sure to consume plenty of fresh fruits, veggies, and healthy fats. This nutritional protocol is all about boosting mood, increasing energy, and overall health/well-being. Therefore, don’t leave out the fruits and veggies!!!
They are packed with nutrients, fiber, and water, they provide the body with alkalinity…and they taste delicious. Healthy fats such as olive oil, coconut oil, hemp seed oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds can help boost brain chemistry functioning, along with many other health benefits.
These nutritional guidelines can help you learn how to taper off Suboxone like a champion:
- Focus primarily on organic whole foods.
- Reduce or eliminate processed foods, refined carbohydrates, sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.
- Drink at least 8-12 glasses of high-quality water per day.
- Choose wild-caught seafood and free-range/organic meats as much as possible.
- Eat your food at a slow or moderate pace (not fast!) and chew it well to absorb as many nutrients as possible.
- Don’t drink with meals because it slows digestion. You can drink beverages 15 minutes before or 30 minutes after meals.
- Avoid ice-cold beverages because it puts out your digestive fire; you can drink cool beverages if you like.
- Don’t overeat at meals! Eat to the point where you have a little room left in your stomach…this helps digestion and increases energy levels.
- Practice mindfulness when eating. Focus on the taste of the food and imagine yourself absorbing copious amounts of nutrition from it.
Note: Learning how to eat healthily is a process. Start taking small steps right away, and continue to work on improving your diet. Don’t worry about overnight perfection…in fact, don’t worry about perfection at all! Don’t stress out about it; strive to eat healthy 80-90% of the time, and the rest of the time eat whatever you desire.
*Also, you might go through withdrawal while you’re cleaning up your diet…FOOD withdrawal!!! Reducing or eliminating Sugar, white flour, cheese, caffeine, and other dietary ingredients can make you feel horrible. Hang in there. Once you’re no longer addicted to these foods you will feel much healthier and energized.
Step 5: Take Supplements To Help You Taper Off Suboxone
If tapering off Suboxone were easy, everyone would do it. And while a good Suboxone taper schedule and nutrition plan can help to eliminate the most severe symptoms, it’s still very hard to come off this powerful medication with no issues.
To taper off Suboxone like a champion, you’ll need to start taking a strategic blend of supplements that can stop “tapering symptoms” in their tracks.
The Top 3 complaints I hear from people tapering off Suboxone are:
- Exhaustion – They have no energy to go to work, take care of kids, and perform other important responsibilities.
- Anhedonia – They no longer enjoy things in life that used to bring them pleasure (“pleasure deafness”).
- Insomnia – They aren’t able to sleep more than a few hours per night, which exacerbates the symptoms above.
Note: This is by no means a complete list of symptoms from tapering Suboxone. Depending on your own unique biochemistry, as well as how slow or fast you’ve tapered, you might experience a different or similar set of symptoms, including, but not limited to: Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), anxiety, decreased appetite, sweating, hot and cold flashes, sneezing, sore/aching muscles and limbs, stomach distress, diarrhea, watery eyes, yawning, irritability, etc.
Opiate Withdrawal Formula
Opiate Withdrawal Formula is an all-organic, 100% natural supplement that was specifically designed for people getting off Suboxone and other opioid drugs. It contains a powerful and synergistic blend of amino acids, herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that have been shown to significantly ameliorate opioid withdrawal symptoms.
This supplement can help you taper off Suboxone in the following ways:
- Enhances Mood
- Eases stomach discomfort
- Increases natural energy
- Calms anxiety
- Restores dopamine production quickly
- Reverses depression
- Reverses insomnia and helps you get more restorative sleep
If you can afford it, I also highly recommend taking this awesome supplement, because the benefits are just too good to pass up.
DL-Phenylalanine
More and more individuals are starting to enjoy the benefits of using DL-Phenylalanine to taper off Suboxone. DL-Phenylalanine, also known as DLPA, is a combination amino acid supplement consisting of L-Phenylalanine and D-Phenylalanine.
L-Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid found in protein-rich foods. It has the ability to radically spike dopamine levels in the brain, so it gives your brain chemistry a much-needed boost while tapering off Suboxone.
D-Phenylalanine is made synthetically in laboratories. It slows the action of the enzymes (particularly carboxypeptidase A and enkephalinase) that destroy endorphins. DPA does this by acting like a “downfield body blocker” in football.
When the endorphins are trying to reach the traumatized area, the endorphin-degrading enzymes are on their way to eat them “Pac-Man” style. DPA comes right up and blocks them from reaching the endorphins, thus enabling the endorphins to successfully reach the traumatized area.
In one study, a man that took a single dose of DLPA experienced a 300% increase in endorphin levels, and they stayed that high for six days. Taking DLPA while tapering off Suboxone can result in a rapid increase in dopamine and endorphin levels in the brain, thus boosting mood and energy levels.
*Take between 1,000-2,000 mg of DLPA
on an empty stomach (45 minutes before meals) up to 3x daily while tapering off Suboxone. Continue this dosing protocol (or decrease dosage if needed) for up to 3-6 months after getting off Suboxone completely. If you already have issues with high blood pressure, start with a low dose of 500 mg to see how it affects you. DLPA is also an “opioid potentiator”, so it increases the effects of Suboxone and other opioid drugs, making it a very beneficial supplement to use while tapering.
Multi-Vitamin & Mineral Supplement
Multi-vitamin/mineral
supplements can help supply your body with the building blocks it needs to create an abundance of neurotransmitters.
Plus they are packed with B vitamins, which are essential for increasing natural energy and reducing stress.
Note: Take one capsule daily with breakfast or lunch while tapering off Suboxone, and for at least a few months after getting off completely.
The “Morning Tonic”
If you truly want to know how to taper off Suboxone like a champion, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND drinking the “Morning Tonic”. This beverage will supercharge you with ENERGY and happiness, and most importantly, it will help your body adapt to the stress that lowering your Suboxone dosage is causing. There is nothing better on this planet for treating fatigue.
The Morning Tonic consists of the following:
- Shen Nong’s Ginseng
– A root that helps the body adapt to physical and mental stress. - Raw Reishi – A mushroom that acts as a powerful mood booster.
- MacaForce – Boosts the endocrine system, promotes natural energy production, and increases libido.
- Good Belly Big Shot 50 – A probiotic drink that boosts digestion and enhances immune function.
– A root that helps the body adapt to physical and mental stress.
– A mushroom that acts as a powerful mood booster.
– Boosts the endocrine system, promotes natural energy production, and increases libido.
– A probiotic drink that boosts digestion and enhances immune function.
To make the Morning Tonic:
- Pour 4 ounces of water into a glass.
- Add 3-6 droppers of Shen Nong’s Ginseng.
- Add 3-6 droppers of Raw Reishi.
- Add 1 Good Belly probiotic drink.
- Add 1 tablespoon MacaForce.
- Mix it all together and drink tonic first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
Note: Drink the Morning Tonic while you’re tapering off Suboxone, and for at least the next 30 days after coming off completely. After that, you can either reduce your dosage or discontinue it. Take it anytime during your life where you need an extra boost, but never take it while you’re sick or recovering from an illness.
*Also, the ginseng and reishi tinctures are very expensive. If you can afford it, I encourage you to take 6-10 droppers of each daily. If money is an issue for you, you can still get great benefits by taking 1-3 droppers per day. Enjoy! 😎
Additional Supplements
After reading how to taper off Suboxone with all of these supplements, you might be thinking: “How many pills do I have to take?!”
I know it’s a lot of stuff, but this article is about learning how to taper off Suboxone like a champion…not like an average person.
The following supplements should also be used to help you taper off Suboxone:
- Vitamin C – 1,000 mg 3x daily with or without food.
- Fish oil – 2 soft gels per day with food.
- Alpha lipoic acid – 200 mg 2x daily on an empty stomach an hour before meals.
– 1,000 mg 3x daily with or without food.
– 2 soft gels per day with food.
– 200 mg 2x daily on an empty stomach an hour before meals.
Note: Vitamin C and alpha lipoic acid are powerful antioxidants that can help you taper off Suboxone with fewer symptoms. Fish oil is a great source of essential fatty acids (EFA’s).
*Research has shown that omega fish oil could possibly play an important role in substance abuse recovery, since a deficiency of these omega-3 fatty acids can lead to low levels of dopamine and serotonin, often resulting in depression and tendencies to abuse addictive mood-altering substances.
Step 6: Exercise!!!
If you really want to know how to taper off Suboxone effectively, I suggest you make exercise an integral part of your life from here on out. There is absolutely no better way to get your body pumping endorphins into your system.
To taper off Suboxone like a champion, you’ll need to start stimulating your endogenous opioid system by exercising on a regular basis.
But first, let me differentiate between a human’s natural painkilling system and opiate/opioid drugs:
- Opiate – A drug with morphine-like effects, derived from opium.
- Synthetic opioid – Any synthetic narcotic that has opiate-like activities, but is not derived from opium.
- Endogenous opioid – An opiate-like substance, such as endorphin, produced by the body.
Note: One of the main reasons I was finally able to quit opiates for good was because I made exercise a huge part of my life. I started surfing, swimming, and circuit training about 3-4 days per week. As a result of this dramatic increase in natural opioids flowing through my brain, I had next to ZERO cravings for opioid drugs.
More About Endorphins…
Endorphins are chemicals (peptides) made by the body. They are released by a number of things, including exercise, or even eating certain foods like chocolate or spicy peppers. Endorphins also reduce the appetite for drug and alcohol-seeking behavior.
If you don’t exercise, eat enough protein, or take DLPA while tapering off Suboxone, you’re at risk of developing Endorphin Deficiency Disorder (EDS).
Some of the possible symptoms of EDS include:
- Depression (chronic or intermittent)
- Difficulty finding happiness in life
- Low tolerance to physical and emotional pain
- General body aches
How To Taper Off Suboxone With Exercise
There are many different types of exercise to choose from while you’re learning how to taper off Suboxone. The trick is to find something you enjoy, that way you’re more likely to stick with it.
If at first, you have trouble getting motivated, listen to some upbeat music while you’re working out, as this has been shown to boost performance and enjoyment. Also, exercising outdoors produces more endorphins than doing so indoors.
Some popular forms of exercise are:
- Swimming
- Speed-walking
- Weight-training
- Cardio on elliptical machines
- Yoga
- Basketball
- Surfing
- Gardening
- Running
Note: Starting an exercise program is sometimes hard in the beginning. But once your body and mind get used to it, it keeps getting easier. Furthermore, after you’ve been working out for about six weeks or more, your body will need it (CRAVE IT), and you will look forward to your workout days. 😀
After I get done with a good workout, I feel like this woman in the picture below (only I feel like a man). 😉
Step 7: Take a Week-Long Vacation From Responsibility
If you really want to know how to taper off suboxone like a champion, I encourage you to take time off from ALL responsibilities. When planning out the dates you will taper off Suboxone completely, try your absolute best to get a week off from work, taking care of kids, school, or whatever responsibilities you have.
At the bare minimum, make sure you schedule at least 3-4 days of “alone time” when you’re coming off Suboxone. I understand this is not always possible. Just do your best to eliminate as much as you can from your day-to-day life. The less you have to do…the better.
The methods I teach you in this article will eliminate the most severe withdrawal symptoms, so it’s possible to continue with your day-to-day life while coming off Suboxone completely, but I don’t recommend it. A relaxing, stress-free, and quiet environment will help to promote a smooth transition off Suboxone, thus increasing your chance of success.
Step 8: Make a Suboxone Detox Shopping List
Before I knew how to taper off Suboxone like a Champion, I made the mistake of being unprepared. The difference between a severe Suboxone detox and a mild one is “planning”. A few days before you taper off Suboxone completely, you’ll need to go shopping for some Suboxone withdrawal remedies.
The following list of items can help to reduce symptoms during your Suboxone detox:
- Water – Maintains hydration
- Gatorade – Replenishes electrolytes
- Peppermint tea – Eases nausea
- Ginger ale – Relieves stomach pain
- Imodium AD – Stops diarrhea and stomach cramping
- Advil – Relieves pain
- Icy Hot – Soothes aching and restless limbs
- Dark Chocolate – Produces endorphins and other “feel good” chemicals
- Heating pad – Eases pain
- Epsom salt – Add to hot baths to relax nervous system
- Whey protein powder – Supplies amino acids that improve mood
- Apple juice – Use as base for protein shakes
- Bananas – Rich in potassium to help relieve RLS
- Berries and other fruit – Quick energy
- Healthy food to cook – Proteins, veggies, healthy fats and carbs
- Saltine crackers – Easy to digest for quick energy
- Blindfold – Helps you sleep
Step 9: Complete Your Suboxone Detox at home
Now that you’ve tapered off Suboxone, got time off from responsibilities and gone shopping, you’re finally ready for the Suboxone detox. Typically, the first 24-48 hours of Suboxone withdrawal induce the less severe symptoms, due to the drugs long half-life…but then all of the drug starts to leave your system, and the symptoms get worse; especially fatigue.
However, that being said, if you’ve done a good job tapering and following the other steps in this article, you should be fine.
The following schedule will give you an idea what a typical day during a Suboxone detox could look like:
- 7:oo am: Wake up and drink a glass of water. Go for a walk, jog or swim.
- 8:00 am: Drink a glass of water or Gatorade. Eat breakfast. Have something like a fruit smoothie with whey protein powder or a breakfast sandwich. Eat a big piece of dark chocolate.
- 9:00 am: Take a long, hot bath with two cups of Epsom salt. Taking a hot bath during Suboxone withdrawal soothes aching muscles and limbs, relieves anxiety, and promotes relaxation. Adding Epsom salt helps you calm the nervous system even more, while also stimulating the production of ATP and serotonin, improving the absorption of nutrients, and flushing toxins out of the body.
- 10:00 am: Put on some extremely comfortable clothes, lay down on the couch and watch either a comedy or an inspirational movie. This will take your mind off the withdrawal and get you into a positive mindset.
- 12:00 pm: Eat lunch. Try to eat something with fish, turkey, beef or chicken if you can stomach it. The amino acids in the protein will help bolster mood-enhancing chemicals in your brain. A sample lunch would be grilled chicken, rice, and steamed veggies. Eat a big piece of dark chocolate.
- 1:00 pm: Watch another movie (comedy or inspirational).
- 3:00 pm: Take a long and hot regular bath.
- 4:00 pm: Drink a big glass of water. Eat a snack if you’re hungry.
- 4:30 pm: Watch an inspirational movie.
- 6:30 pm: Go for a long walk, jog or swim.
- 7:30 pm: Drink a glass of Gatorade and take a hot bath. Drink a glass of water after your bath.
- 8:30 pm: Eat dinner. Some good examples are fish tacos or a turkey burger. Eat a big piece of dark chocolate. 30 minutes after dinner drink a cup of peppermint or chamomile tea.
- 9:00 pm: Turn off all of the lights in the house. Light some candles and listen to relaxing music. You want to avoid bright lights, the TV, computer, and any other electrical devices after 9 pm. This is when your brain starts producing melatonin to help you fall asleep. Staring at the computer or other lights tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daytime, and this interferes with the production of sleep-inducing melatonin.
- 9:30 pm: Start writing in a journal. Write about all of the things you are going to do with your life once you complete your Suboxone detox.
- 10:00 pm: Start reading a self-help book by candlelight and go to bed as soon as you get sleepy. Make sure to get to bed before 12:00 am. Also make sure the room you sleep in is cool, quiet, and dark. If you don’t get good sleep then don’t worry, lack of sleep won’t kill you.
Note: This is just a sample of what a day of a planned Suboxone detox at home could look like. You can switch it up and adjust things as you see fit. Make sure to drink plenty of liquids throughout the day. Don’t forget to take your supplements throughout the day, and avoid alcohol, coffee, and energy drinks at all costs!!!
* If the food I mentioned doesn’t sound good then don’t worry…simply eat what sounds good to your body. If you have any diarrhea take Imodium AD. If you have aching muscles and limbs take Advil and rub Icy Hot on the problem areas.
Step 10: Stay clean!
Now you know how to taper off Suboxone like a CHAMPION!!! However, the real challenge is staying clean. You are probably going to feel like using in the next few weeks or months. Don’t give in! Continue taking your supplements, exercising, and eating healthy.
Continue writing in your journal and reading your self-help book. Start another book as soon as you finish the first one. Feeding your mind is essential for developing a healthy recovery free of addiction.
Natural Pain Relief and PAWS
If you are one of the many people who was originally prescribed opiates for issues with pain, you might benefit from learning about natural remedies for pain relief. I’ve written an article completely devoted to this titled:
Also, now that you’re going to live life without Suboxone, there is a high percentage chance you will go through Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), which is a set of symptoms that manifest after the acute withdrawal. To combat this disorder, please refer to the following article:
Final Thoughts…
Learning how to live life without Suboxone can be difficult. We get so used to reaching for Suboxone to give us energy and happiness. The next few months after tapering off Suboxone will test you. The first 90 days after getting clean is when 90% of people relapse. Don’t let it happen to you!
I’ve been clean for several years now, and I feel better than I have in my entire life at the age of 35. It took me about six months to really feel amazing after I got off opioids, so I encourage you to be patient. It takes the body some time to recover from all the brain chemistry imbalances that Suboxone created or exacerbated.
Find other people who successfully tapered off Suboxone to talk with and use them as your support system during this early recovery phase. I have faith that you will stay clean now that you’ve learned how to taper off Suboxone like a champion.
If you have any questions on how to taper off Suboxone, please leave them in the comment box below. I love hearing from my readers. Feel free to ask me about tapering, supplements, exercise, nutrition, or anything else that your heart desires.
Click here now to view my best home detox.
I hope you enjoyed this looooooong article on how to taper off Suboxone as much as I enjoyed writing it for you! Take care…and best of luck to you.
I would like to say a big thank you to Matt!
I have read just about everything I could fine for about a year now while wanting to be off suboxone. I have been taking it for 2 1/2 years. I started on three full strips (24 mgs) – which I admit was way too much. I started the suboxone after a year of steady/heavy heroin use. My clinic appointments were pretty expensive and I knew I did not want to this suboxone forever, but it definitely was instrumental in getting my life back. After 2 years of being on it, I knew I wanted to stop. I tapered down to 2 mg a day very easily, hardly noticing a difference – just as Matt stated, (which is another reason I think 2 or 3 strips a day is just too much for most people). A few months ago I rapidly tapered down to .125 mgs within a week and then went every other day for a bit and then stopped taking it. I made it 9 days with nothing at one point and then couldn’t take the withdrawal feelings any more so I started back up again and got back up to 2 mgs.
I am a teacher, and now that it is summer vacation I am “all in” again and committed to stopping completely.
This article is monumentally helpful. I keep this tab open and check it almost every day. I am successfully taking .5 – .8 mg every other day. I am adhering strictly to the taper schedule documented above starting at day “67” (which I consider as my day 1 since I had already made it down to about .5 mg a day). In 6 more days I will start taking .5 every third day and will move down to .25 every third day as the taper schedule recommends. I plan to go down to .125 every third day and then maybe even to .63 every fourth day thus extending the taper schedule a bit.
This site is amazing. I am following the nutrition guidelines. I am “trying” to exercise as much as possible. I think the supplement info and the morning tonic have been maybe the most extremely useful tips.
I am taking DLPA and the Alpha Lipoic Acid in the mornings before I eat anything. Then I make the morning tonic as written above in the article. I couldn’t find the GoodBelly probiotic drink available for purchase online so I just mix the other three main ingredients with juice and add a few droppers of a probiotic formulation that I found on the internet. Im taking a B complex vitamin, Vitamin C, and Fish Oil daily as well. When I first tried to quit suboxone 6 months ago without all these things, the low dosage days and every other day between my small doses were horrible – now with these supplements, it is much better and easier. Some of the ingredients were expensive and I did much research on their safety and effectiveness and decided to order them. I think they are worth it.
I have not found any information on the internet as detailed and specific as this website, so again, I wanted to say a huge thank you! I will post an update on my progress in a couple weeks and I HOPE it is a good one with a story of success! Best wishes and prayers to all!
Wow! Reading your post here just made my day. I’m thrilled that this article and website have helped. Keep up with the great work doing all the many things necessary to actually be successful quitting Subs and not feeling horrible. I look forward to your update!
Hi does anyone lnow whether i should take the supplement. While tapering off or should i wait til my last dosage
Iv been on subs for about 7 yrs I’m currently on 12 mg a day I’d like to tapper off in s month ,still performing my daily duties with work and home I get my script once a month any ideas
My best advice is don’t rush it. You will inevitably feel yucky withdrawals, zero energy, and overall anxiety. (You wrote this 6 months ago, so maybe you were able to successfully taper.) But if not, I’d say focus on getting down to 2 mg a day. For me, and from what I have read many times, that is pretty easy. I went from taking 16 mg a day to 2 mg a day in about a month without really noticing a difference.
It is the tapering from 2 mg to nothing that is more difficult. I am currently at .5 mg every other day and I am using the morning tonic written above and many of the vitamin supplements listed here as well. They are helping so much. I plan to taper down to .125 mg or less every three or four days over the course of about three weeks before I stop completely. It really is the only way to avoid serious withdrawals and be able to continue to perform daily duties. If you want more information about the details I took away from this website such as the morning tonic and the specific supplements and vitamins I chose to use, just reply to let me know and I will reply with my list.
I’ve been on this evil drug for so long but I’m so deathly afraid to come off of it. Everything in my life is due to my sobriety and if I lose it I’m screwed. No one ever told me to stop they just kept giving it to me. Now I feel like my life depends on it. Please help me I’m desperate. Please.
I AM NOT A PROFESSIONAL. I AM SIMPLY PROVIDING ADVICE.
I see no one replied to you Dave, I hope I can provide some advice. Anything I say is not to scare you or alarm you. I’m telling you this bc I genuinely have hope for you and believe we are all powerful if we want to be.
My understanding thru all my readings is that people who’ve been on it beyond 5-6 years struggle the most. As humans we evolve rapidly give our life span. It’s as if we are a little different or more evolved every 7 years. Due to this, experiencing something for a long period of time can become apart of our social and mental identity, making it more than just the physical aspect of dependence. To get off of this you have to accept one monumental truth: this is going to be the hardest thing you’ve ever done, it won’t be easy, but you are absolutely capable of doing this and surviving it.
Before attempting to taper off, you need to try and remind yourself why life is better without it. Think of the times before suboxone when you could smell the crispy air in the morning. Draw up memories of times where your senses really made an impact on you. Maybe the sight of mountains, or the ocean, the smell of getting coffee with your father. Suboxone numbs our senses and we forget how pleasurable lucidity is. Spend a couple weeks constantly thinking about this. Also think about your “why” for getting off. Really think about it and believe it and anchor it in your mind. Finally, remember, humans are incredible creatures. The complex systems that make us wo we are chose survival over demise. Our bodies are constantly working to help us survive. When you worry about not being able to survive this, remember 1)you will survive this and 2)your entire being, your body, your cells and flesh, were designed to do everything possible to keep you alive.
Once you’ve really geared your mind up, make a bold mood for yourself. If you take sub twice a day. go to one time a day slightly increasing the amount of your first dose. If you take it one time a day, reduce the first dose by 30% and hang with it for 2 weeks. Once you make it to this point, you’re ready. You just prepped your mind for the ultimate marathon of your life. You also made a bold move and reduced your dose for two weeks to prepare for it!
You are strong Dave. The only reason you may think otherwise is bc of the lie this medication/drug has seeded and festered in your mind. ITS A LIE. You are powerful, you are capable, the only thing you need to do is begin, believe, and take care of yourself. I recommend following the nutritional and exercise advice on this page while doing so as well!
Once you have spent some time really gearing your mind up,
Do you have any advice on how to measure suboxone pills into the small taper amounts?
Ask your doctor Temgesic[0.2mg]nb i live in the Netherlands do not know how it is in your country
I have only been on suboxone for 4 days and I have decided I don’t want to go this route. How would you recommend I stop? Here is what I have taken:
Day 1 – 12mg
Days 2-3 – 16mg
Day 4 – 12mg
The doctor told me to take 16mg per day in four doses. But after reading everything, I would rather go cold turkey off of oxy. Is it too late for that?
I appreciate any help!!
Hi Leah
I was taking this suboxone 2-4mg over the past few years.
I only was physically dependant on maybe 1-3 percocets a say for a back injury..
Some so “called pain” mngmt dr’s Justify ridiculously high doses ,, Like the amt that you were on..
thankfully i am off this poison for 21 days now.. They Justify it by believing that they are Noble docs saving lives.. Ok that being said..( I agree tht if a responsible doc puts someone on a low dose for a week or 2 to save a life and addict.. but here lies the problem. some docs are running these clinics without in depth knowledge and specificity/nuance of each patient.. They grab your cash and commission from these pharma co’s..
Lastly If there is 1 thing i want to warn peeps abt is that if you google (Lab rats) Study Suboxone
you will soon find a major study showing that suboxone Depletes Adenosine in the brain which is crucial for SLEEP.. hmm Why is it tht these drs are not mentioning that.. ??? maybe because they don’t know or don’t care.. Once again they hide behind the idea that they are saving lives..
(ok maybe true) but their ignorance and abt this drug and its long term effects along with ther greed for you weekly 100$ makes them gloss over this crucial component..
IRONY= on the sub manufacturer website they say that the pros of this drug is that it doesn’t damage vital organs.. contradiction= I was taught in science class years ago that the
BRAIN is an Organ !
Hello Matt and all, I am looking for some help, actually im desperate for help at this point.
i am currently down to .5 mg suboxone a day; split into 2 doses, so .25 morning and at night. I have been at this dose for some time now (5-6 months). I have noticed some very odd affects since being at this dose. my whole mood and outlook on life is a rollercoaster. Some days i feel good and motivated to quit, and some days i feel like total death and am depressed, sometimes severely with thoughts of “this world would be better without me”. I have never been suicidal, EVER… Im not sure what is happening here or if im at so low of a dose it cant stay consistent in my body? along with cold sweats, anxiety, and thoughts of panic.
I have about 15 days worth left of medication if i stay at .5 mg. I am beyond scared for the withdrawal, as i am working full time and cannot take any days off. my family isnt the type to accept these kinds of problems, so support from them is not an option.
I also have stocked up on 1- oxy 15mg, 2- norco 10mg, 5- clonopin .5mg, 10- 75mg lyrica, and a support supplement by the name of SynaptaGenX. I am looking to get any communication at all to help assisting me in a plan to get off of this horrible stuff. I am not sure what my next steps should be and like i said, i am beyond scared at this point as the days are closing in on me before hell opens up on me.
I would truly really appreciate any feedback at all. I am desperate for help at this point!
Chris, how long have you been on the subs, craigalan1@ cox.net
Total time being around 9-10 months. been stuck at .5 for about 5-6 months.
Thanks for your reply Craig.
Hey matt, I literally just ordered the Elimidrol night and day, a shit ton of different red vein and other types of kratom, Imodium AD, Passion flower extract 4%, GABA 750mg powder, CBD oil, and one or two other things I have seen on this website and other sites. I have been on 16 mg for 2 years and the year before that was on 24 mg of subutex. I have about 240 mg of subutex left and found a taper regimen that needs 164 mg of subutex and lasts 60 days. the first 5 days bump me from my current 16 to 12 mg, the next 5 days go from 12 mg to 8 mg, then 5 more days from 8 mg to 4 mg, then 8 days later on 2 mg, 7 days on 1.5 mg, 8 days on 1 mg, 6 days on .75 mg, 6 days on .5 mg, 5 days on .25 mg, and 4 days on .13 mg. Though I don’t know how I am going to cut my medication since the subutex I have looks like a football and is orange. Ill figure it out.
In case you didn’t see this coment before and also in case somebody just like me in the same situation has no idea what to do or what to get. Here is my plan based on reading what you have said on here and I have seen elsewhere.
My question is do you think this schedule will work and sounds good in your opinion? Keep in mind I bought all those supplements and things to help with the withdrawal. I am thinking I probably wont even need any of it til maybe the 4 mg or 2 mg mark.
I am really hoping this works as if it doesn’t I have no idea what I will do because I missed my last suboxone appointment on purpose so that my doctor will refuse to see me again. Really hoping this is going to be it. I have bought everything I know to buy. Bought some of it off the site you recommend top extracts and also some off coastlinekratom. Thanks for everything you do and sorry this was so long.
Good for you, Jordan! I loved reading your list and your plan. It looks very effective in my opinion. I think everything will be much easier than trying to come off the medication without remedies. Elimidrol alone can help, but combined with the kratom and other stuff, you have really prepared! Well done!
And I’m not sure if you did so already, but if you haven’t yet read my book The Kratom Playbook For Opiate Recovery, I suggest checking it out. It’s free and I published it on my blog for all to benefit from.
Hi Matt
I have been wanting to get off suboxone for awhile but I am so scared to detox.. I have never felt this pain in my life. I have a 2 and half daughter so I don’t want to be completely unfunctional for her.. I am really guna take this and try.. I take 4 mg a day.. when will the detox kick in and how long will it last.. after I get the end of the taper..
Hi Matt, I just posted a comment but not sure why it didn’t add for some reason.. but I really want to get off suboxone and your website is what I have been looking for.. I am so scared of the withdrawals. By following what you have posted will it make me withdrawal as bad and how long will I have withdrawals. I am currently taking 4 mg..
I absolutely love your ideas I’m trying to get off subs everything you explained was to the T exiting exactly on point I’m at the point were I’m taken 2mil this from starting off 16 mil grams a day and dropping after this point were it gonna get harder. I generally pretty well but I do not have any energy and not motivated to do anything. some supplements you described above amino acids and the other one can you give a list off what best. My biggest problem is even now no energy and motivation and desire to do anything I. Hate. It.
Hi Ben,
Glad you loved the ideas! There is plenty of info here to help, and as for your biggest problem being energy, I’ll send you a link to a video I made specifically on that subject which should help:
The Opiate-Energy Addiction Connection>>
Hi all,
I’ve been on Suboxone for years. Tapered very slowly and I’m down to 1 mg.
I don’t feel a thing. Is this normal ?
Wade, that is awesome. I have heard that some people feel fine going all the way down to 2mg. It’s possible your threshold is even lower, especially due to the half life, and the years of use. It’s been about a month since this post of yours. I would love it if you shared how it went, after you got below 1mg. How is it going brotha ?
Hello! I just read your article and it’s amazing. I am currently 7days off of suboxone. I started taking two 8mg strips a day July 2017 and quickly (about a month) then to 4mg twice a day for about another month. Then down to 4mg once a day for a bout a month then 2mg once a day and then 1mg once a day and the 1/.5mg for about 1 1/2 months. I bought calm support the first time I tried quitting hydrocodone cold turkey but the withdrawals were too bad to deal with. So I went to a suboxone specialist which helped enormously. I tapered down very fast from what my doctor has told me and I never felt any major withdrawals! Today is the first time I took calm support and went to the gym. The withdrawals aren’t severe but I find my mood fluctuating from happy and positive to sad and depressed. I know I’m still early into my recovery and these things are to be expected.
My question to you would be how long I should expect this “bi-polar” emotional rolercoaster ive been on.
I went to the grocery store today and bought lots of health foods and ensure (high in protein and vitamins.) I’m just curious as to how long I should expect to feel so emotional and have insomnia. I find myself able to fall asleep easily but staying asleep has been impossible.
I appreciate your article so much and any recommendations are appreciated.
I’m hoping calm support will work wonders on me from what I’ve read. But I’m just worried about the duration of my withdrawals.
Hi Nikki,
CONGRATS!!! Wow! What you’ve done is so extraordinary! It could take anywhere from 1-2 weeks to longer to feel better at this point. If you really focus on the right supplements, foods, and exercise, you can typically start feeling GREAT after about 2 weeks of ups and downs.
What about the outcomes to all these comments? Does anyone come back and say ‘ya, this or that DID work’…or was everyone just feeling froggy and Lied to themselves about quitting. I have heard and said it 1000 times myself.
I get several emails from people that have used this method saying how well it worked, and I’ve had a lot of clients say the same thing.
Matt,
I just so happen to have tapered from 1 mg a few months ago, to .5 to .125 to a small piece, to nothing. On sub for year never more than 2 mg. Been surfing twice a day and this is third day and feel good. Restless leg. Had a few Xanax for sleep but I want off subs. So happy it worked out this way . On way home Monday, in 5 days and am eating super healthy walking 5 miles a day. I was so happy to read this. Thank u, I know I wasn’t on long or a lot but I still hate myself for it, I want to be clean. Drop me a line…. pura Vida …..
Wonderful progress! Thanks for sharing this with me and I’m so happy for you!!! Take care. 🙂
Matt
I have been taking 4mg 3 times a day for about 7 yrs today is my appointment with doc and I’m telling them to start the taper. I ‘ve gotten down to 1 4mg strip a day. I started the DLPA yesterday 1500 mg total and ordered the calm. But I’m confused which is better calm or elmidor? As well how do I taper from the 1 strip of 4mg a day with all the other because when I dextoxed from opiods the withdrawal was BAD!!! they did give me clonidine and I think it was valium so that helped because my anxiety shot thru the roof . I was begging my husband to shoot me until that point. I don’t understand why they do this to us but we do it to ourselces as well. I am determined and I know I can do this my husband is amazing and God sent. I don’t know how to do the taper from the 1 strip of 4mg a day. I have NEVER abused the drug and many times didn’t take all I was supposed to . I don’t want to repeat the agony again I rather be tortured. Please please email . My clock is ticking for freedom and a healthy sound mind soul and body. Thank you for all you are doing and God Bless. Tammie
Hi Matt ,can you please let me know if we can meet? Where are you located.? I really woul like to share my story.
Hi. I’ve been taking 16 mg a day for about 7 months… If I follow your techniques do you think I will have any severe symptoms? I’m worried cuz I have a one year old I have to keep up with her energy level. I’m so ready to be free of Suboxones hold. I know the longer you take it the harder it will be but I’m hoping 7 months will be quite different experience than say 6 years on it… Thanks for your time!!
Hi Emily,
I wouldn’t have written this article if I thought that following these techniques would still lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. However, I wrote this plan because when followed, it should eliminate severe withdrawal symptoms, and likely even moderate symptoms, leaving nothing by mild symptoms.
And 7 months is almost nothing compared to most people I hear from. I’ve seen people get off many years of Suboxone treatment with this plan with ease.
HI Matt, I found your article and I am in the early taper days. I am on day 2 at 1.0mg and I decided back at day 4 of 1.5mg that I needed to speed this up big time. So I began to write out my unique taper schedule and I just had a question about the 0.5 dose. Is there a specific reason you went from decreases every 14 days to the 0.5 dose lasting for 23 days? And then you start dosing every other day and then every 3 days. I am going to stick with your plan when I get there because you said it was extremely effective that way rather than stopping at a lower dose. Just wondering so I can take into consideration when planning my taper. Thanks again! Your article is so amazing! It still isn’t easy but because of you it is POSSIBLE. And that’s all I wanted.
Hi Allison,
Yes there is a reason I did that. It’s to help reduce taper withdrawal symptoms. 🙂 Glad you enjoyed this article and GOOD LUCK on your taper!! 🙂
Thank you Matt for your reply. I can tell that you are truly passionate about helping normal people caught up in this addiction get off this drug. I am so grateful for you.
I am doing 7 days of 1.0 then I was going to ask you if you would recommend staying on 0.5 for 23 days or can I cut this length to 11 days?
I’ve got 1 more burning question about kratom and brain chemistry. You say kratom binds to the same receptors as an opoid but it isn’t an opoid. Would I be hindering my brains ability to produce the endorphins I am deficient in on it’s own by using kratom? Will my brain, following your excercise and nutrition plan, produce these endorphins again on its own? If I take kratom to ease withdrawal symptoms, am I slowing my brains ability to learn to make these endorphins on its own? I think I just asked that twice lol anyway thank you in advance.
I think kratom is a true miracle herb for helping people get off Suboxone. It’s pretty hard to taper off Suboxone, but this article I wrote makes it much, much easier. You should read my free ebook The Kratom Playbook For Opiate Recovery as it will show you a step-by-step method to use kratom short-term to transition off Suboxone, and then you finish off the taper using kratom and supplements. It’s magic.
And for your other question, you can cut the length of .5 mg dosing to 11 days instead. That’s still great.
Just wanted to know if I can take calm support and dlpa together. I switched to suboxone after being on methadone for a few years. I was only on 4mg but still having side effects brain fog no sex drive etc. So I tapered fast. I’m on 0.5 mg and ready to completely be off but know I’m gonna need something to help with the aftermath of getting back to normal. Sorry if someone already asked this. And how much should I take since I was already on such a low dose. I hope to hear from you soon. And thank you so,much for the article!
Yes these two supplements work best taken together.
Take 1,000-2,000 mg DLPA 2-3 times per day
Take DLPA on an empty stomach an hour before meals.
After 60 days off Suboxone you can start slowly decreasing your DLPA dosage.
If you start to experience opiate cravings or other mental health issues raise your dosage back to normal.
Take DLPA for as long as you need. Most people benefit from taking it for at least a few months after the acute opiate withdrawal is over.
For people with high blood pressure and/or anxiety issues, DLPA might aggravate those issues. In these cases, you can use DPA, as it doesn’t contain the L- form of phenylalanine, which is the one that can exacerbate anxiety and hypertension.
DLPA or DPA should always be used with Calm Support when tapering off Suboxone.
Sorry one more question is there an Alternative for the calm support or does if have to be that brand? I found the dlpa on amazon.
A great alternative is Elimidrol.
I’ve done a taper detox from Suboxone , I’ve found that cannabis helps with side effects while detoxing. The headaches & migraines were awful, Thanks for your support. ♡5 Years later Still drug free
Great testimonial on the power of the natural herb cannabis, Dale. Here is a link to an article I wrote on that, which has a link to a study that showed it was also helpful for people on methadone as well. Thanks for leaving this comment!
Marijuana Eases Opiate Withdrawal Symptoms>>
Hi I’m tapering off now and I keep getting muscle trimmers and that is the worst feeling for me I get so close to being completely off but just can’t seem to beat that part what would you recommend I would greatly appreciate ur help I can’t tell I know what ur talking about and thanks
Hi Jake, what are muscle trimmers? Are you talking about “tremors?” Any symptoms of tapering are typically due to going to fast. I’ve honestly never heard of this symptom perhaps you could talk more about it?
Hi Matt, Thank you for the detailed information. I have been chained to this evil drug for over 9 years! I was never addicted to pain pills as I am this crap, just kept needing more to help my degenerative disc disease, which I still am struggling with. All the affects of this drug are awful and if I knew your not supposed to use this drug for any longer than a month or 2 I wouldn’t be in this situation. I blame my doctor! Now he’s “helping” me get off, but told me it will take a year! NO WAY! I was on 16 mg a day, and I have tapered myself down to 3 mg a day. I am on the tablets. I get terrible symptoms now, and can hardly eat anything, because nothing tastes good. I get those terrible sweats and chills, and have constant headaches and body aches, and sleeping all night is tough. I wake up at least once a night, drenched with sweat. I drink nothing but tea and protein shakes each day. I have a full time job as well as my own part-time bookkeeping business, but I am determined to get off of this. I have 3 wonderful children, and I am going to be a grandmother for the first time in May. I am off all next week for Thanksgiving, so I am going to try go off cold turkey. I am determined to get off of these and never take them again. I never had this trouble with the pain pills, I always tapered myself off those fine, but my doctor wanted me to try this to get off of them 9 years ago…but I never would have had I known.
I see articles online to use Kratom as well as the Calm Support to help with symptoms. Have you had any experience using Kratom, and would you recommend that, with all the research you have done? Thanks in advance for you all of your help!
Hi Charlotte,
In my opinion, kratom is very effective at helping a person get off Suboxone. I’ve heard from many people that have said the same thing, who have used it to get off Suboxone and even methadone with ease.
I’ve tried kratom and it worked very well.
I’m going to post a link to my main kratom article so other readers that check out your comment can learn more:
How To Use Kratom For Opiate Withdrawal>>
HI Matt, thank you for your article I can’t wait until I am totally free of bup. I have been taking subutex for 5 years. Recently in Va the MA passed a law saying that subutex cannot be prescribed to anyone unless they are with child. So All tex patients had to switch to suboxone. I was content on subutex. But I immediately started having problems with the other. I had zero short term memory, I was in a constant state of fog. I couldn’t sleep, I couldn’t think. I had zero energy, motivation etc. I was a living zombie. I talked to my doctor and he said I might be one of the few that actually have an allergy to it. Which is fine by me bc it has given me the motivation to get off this crap. I have taken myself down to 2mg a day from 16 mg in a month with zero wd. Even though I am not as forgetful and can pretty much function at workagain I still feel like I am in a fog and have no motivation. The I came across your article. Thank you! I wish with this ‘allergy” I could just stopbut i tried that and my body was like…NOPE!
Anyway my question is…and sorry if it is already answered here but for the supplements can you take them while tapering if you experience wd? or do they work better once you are completely off and start the “detox”? Thanks for your reply
Hi Allison,
Yes I’ve answered this but it’s totally cool you shouldn’t have to read through so many comments to find out. Yes you can take them on your taper at any time you like. The sooner you begin taking them, the better you’ll feel. 🙂
Hi Matt, Thank you for the detailed information. My husband and I have been chained to this evil drug for over 6 years! I wasn’t as addicted to pain pills as I am this crap. My husband was very addicted and i feel subox saved his life. All the affects of this drug are awful and if I knew your not supposed to use this drug for any longer than a month or 2 we wouldn’t be in this situation. I blame the doctors! I feel dirty every time I go into clinic to get my script, the pharmacy allways has a problem stocking it so then i go into a panic that i will be out. I do not take it every 24hr i break a 2mg film up into 4 parts and take throughout the day. I will be changing this habit tomorrow. I have no sex drive, im on bipolar meds also because I just couldn’t get out of bed (depression I guess) but i am not bipolar. I can’t concentrate I don’t feel like I’m connecting genuinely with people around me because of the toxic drug in my system. My husband runs out early almost every month which is when he says he wants to get off the stuff until I tell him it’s a couple weeks to months withdraw because of the half life unless you work a taper program. He’s on 4mg. I am going to work your program and get off this stuff by Jan 30th 2018. Thank you thank you thank you. I will keep you posted on my progress and any support you can suggest emotionally in my city would be appreciated. Any advise you can give would be help immensely
Sincerely committed,
Tiffani
Hi Tiffany,
Well I’m just thrilled you found this article! Sounds like you’re 100% ready and committed to getting off Suboxone, and that mindset you have of linking pain to using it is the most powerful resource there is to quit.
I look forward to hearing from you again for a progress-update. As for support, I really like SMART Recovery the best for my own beliefs, but some people prefer 12-step groups, Celebrate Recovery, Rational Recovery, or some of the lesser-known ones.
I’m going to start my own non-profit self-help organization that I believe is going to revolutionize that world, but that project is going to take quite some time. If you want to know when that happens join my email list as that’s where I provide updates to all new resources and new opiate recovery treatment advancements in the field I learn about or create.
Keep that great attitude and it will serve you well on your taper. You’re excited right now after learning this new information, so if I were you, I would not leave the site of a goal without taking at least 2 small action steps that can get you started. You already set a jump-off date which is one action, now, if you haven’t already done so, take once more action that leads you closer to your goal.
Take care and I look forward to hearing from you again!
Im going to try this taper i have always heard about it but i could never find anywhere that would tell you and show you how to do it. I tried quitting about 6 months ago cold turkey it was alright for about 3 days then it got bad no sleep because of a horrible pain in my right leg im not sure if its from withdrawal or from where i injured it in iraq or both but after 12 days i started taking it again i hated doing it but i had to sleep and go to work i thought I’d never be able to get away from it but im gonna try this and if i succeed ill let you know i hope i can do it.
Hi Clay,
I’m very happy that you’re going to do this taper plan. Now you have the exact step-by-step methods to get off Suboxone, and I wish you all the best on your journey. Take care.
I have been on suboxone for about 5 yrs was on 8mg 2x a day for 3 yrs then cut myself to 1 a day after 3 yrs currently the past 2 weeks I’ve cut the 8mg tab in half and taking that everyday I just want off this I had major surgery 5 yrs ago and doc had me in several pain meds and I hated life like that I couldn’t function so I got on suboxone. Now that I’ve been on. Half for 2 weeks I don’t understand how I can cut the pill on these charts down to 1mg .5 then less it’s confusing. Also in the artist talks about dopamine and serotonin im on a few meds for anxiety adhd and depression like klonopin adderall wellbutrin and topamax I’ve been on those since I was in my late teens so way before I had surgery 5 yrs ago so I’m confused if I take all these supplements will they interact with my other medications I just want off this suboxone I was never told I would go through withdrawals like pain medication if that was the case I would have just come off all pain meds that my doctor was giving after surgery and dealt with the pain and suffering from complications. It’s like I wanted to get off those to have a normal life and now I am going through this what should I do as far as tappering and my other medications?
Hi Meg,
With the medications, you can just Google the interactions to see if you can take the supplements on your current meds. And the video in this article shows you exactly how to cut the Suboxone films down to smaller and smaller pieces. I know it can be confusing and it’s certainly a process, and not an easy one.
The main thing is that you do whatever it takes to achieve your goal of becoming opioid-free. I know you can do this! If you have any other questions I’m happy to assist.
I’m not on the films im on the tablets so I take a half one a day now for the past 2 weeks or so and when I use the pill cutter they don’t cut right so I’m just confused as to when I go to cut a half in half they are just gonna crumble or should I just stop after a month of taking a half I hate it but my entire body kills but I’m sure in time it will go away I hate how doctors look at you when you tell them your taking this medication they always stereo type and make me feel awful about myself
They really should make formulations of smaller dosages. Although that would make it easier for people to taper off, meaning less profits. You could always switch to the films, or you crush the tablets up and add them to the correct measurement of water so that each drop would be a liquid suspension of .1 mg. I’m horrible at math but there is a way to do this and you keep the liquid Suboxone solution in the fridge in a lockbox so no one else can use it but you.
There is also a way to just break down the tablet into crumbs. That is how a lot of people do it. They just take the crumbs of the tablet and that way they’re able to micro-dose with it.
I’ve been on the tablets for a little over a month, I’m in a MAT program and I get 7 pills for 7 days……….I was clean and sober for 23 months on the Vivitrol shot, with AA and NA, counseling and working, I had a relapse and only used Heroine for about 3 weeks, and then immedately got into a MAT program………I want to be free from having some substance controlling my body, my mind, my physical well being if I don’t have it………I have the tables 8mg………….I’m wanting to know if your suggestions to the tapering off like a champ can work for the tablets as well……Thank you so much
Oh ya it can work for the tablets, for Subutex, for Zubsolv…any buprenorphine formulation. Absolutely this plan is for all those. It’s basically a buprenorphine taper plan, but I used the term Suboxone and referred to the strips because that is by far the most common. I’m excited for you to start this process Megan!
Just finished reading your article. Everything sounds great! I am on 8mg of
Buprenorphin-Naloxone. Started at16 and was able to get to 8 fairly quickly. I
take it once in 24 hours. However no matter how late in the day I take it, I am still
grumpy and out of sorts all afternoon and evening. I do not take the supplements
that you recommend. Do you really think it will make a difference? Also how do I
begin to taper down from8mg ?
ThankYou
I really want to get off suboxone it messing with my life can u help me please I have a good job and a beautiful daughter.
Hi Edwin,
I’m sorry it’s messing with your life. What is wrong with the medicine? Are you getting side effects? I’d love to help. Let me know any questions you have and I’m happy to answer them.
Mr. Finch,
Thanks, for a good well written article on getting off subs. This is day 43 in my taper and I have never felt better in my life. Took a few days to get all the supplements around, but once I got going I don’t want to stop. I never realized the power of just good old exercise. There are days when I can wait to get working out and eating a good meal. Once again Thanks. And keep up the good work. With this plan I know I got this.
Hi Tim,
Your comment totally made my day. I’m so happy to read about how good you feel on this taper. And exercise is awesome like that…once you get addicted to exercise you look forward to it and NEED IT!!! Good for you, thanks for the feedback and kind words, and you’re well on your way to being opioid-free. Keep up the great work!
So awesome! Good for you!
Wow, what a lucky dude I am for finding this site! Well, my wife found it actually. I am just now starting what I HOPE is a serious “quick” taper from 24-40 mgs per day of Suboxone down to NOTHING around the new year. I’ve been on subs for just over 4 years now with a short 2 month NIGHTMARE cold turkey detox for 2 weeks and then immediately abusing Loperamide (Immodium) for a month and a half in the middle of the 4 years. Trying to go cold turkey is what has terrified me of ever not taking subs but now that I have your amazing, exhaustive resource I think I can do it! One quick question though…and I’m sure it’s addressed somewhere in this behemoth of an opiate addiction website, but is it smarter to stay on the 300 mgs of Welbutrin I’m on during the next 5 or so months or get off that too? Dopamine is such a huge factor so it seems like taking the Welbutrin away would be a bad idea. THANKS AGAIN!!! I will be hanging out here often…
Hi Tim,
So glad you’re enjoying this website and especially this article on how to taper off Suboxone. That experience you had coming off Subs sounded horrible.
If it were me I would stay on the Wellbutrin while getting off Suboxone. Of course, always go by your doctor’s recommendation when it comes to taking or not taking medications.
Enjoy combing through all the content on this site, and I wish you the absolute best on your journey Tim.
Hi, I’m currently on 3 x 50 mg of tramadol a day for back pain, side affects are my moods and short fuse, hence my wife left me and took the kids….
I’m in New Zealand and wondering how I can get calm support… would it go through customs..? Cheers.
Calm support is just a vitamin supplement, so I’m quite sure you won’t have any issues with customs. I’m not a professional, but cant see how that would be a problem. I would suggest reading the article and comments on mega dosing vitamin C for wd symptoms. That really is like a miracle. Good luck!
Yea there should not be an issue, can’t wait till I get off tramadol it’s a drug they give to anyone with pain symptoms, I was clean for 9 years until my back issues started, now it’s ruined my life, trying to hold down my job while supporting my 2 girls and wife on one wage and a mortgage, I’ve been taking them now for 4yrs but now I take them just to get through the day not getting high just getting by day to day, even though now I’m separated I want even more to get off the crap!
Sorry if I’m blabbering I don’t have any support in Auckland (New Zealand ) I’m glad there are people that want to help others struggling to get off opioids, like these forums and matts web pages, it’s a saving grace!
Thanks for listening 😊
Have you joined the Facebook group called Suboxone taper support? I understand you’re not on Suboxone, but I’ve found that that FB group is enormously supportive and educational with tons of resources and people whom are on or are trying to get off of any kind of opioid from all over the world. It’s closed so you have to ask to join – but definitely do! Think it will be good since you don’t have local support.
I’m so glad I happened to stumble upon this article earlier today. I have been on suboxone for 3 years now and felt like it was impossible to ever get off of it. Within the last few months, I found a wonderful psychiatrist, an addiction specialist doctor and a very supportive counselor. I feel like this article is the last piece of the puzzle that I need in order to realize how much I want to get off suboxone. I also feel like I can finally accomplish this and am very motivated. Thank you so much for writing this article!
Hi Julie,
I’m so glad you stumbled upon this article too! Now that the “Suboxone Recovery Puzzle” is complete for you, I know you will be able to transition off the medication like a CHAMPION!!! Thanks for leaving a comment, and I’m wishing you the best and am behind you in your corner. Take care.
Hi Matt, I currently am on 20 mg of suboxone and want to get off it tomorrow if I could. I read your blog on the best produts to take, Calm Support, Kyani, (is that the triangle or ???) Vitamin C, DLPA, and Imodium . If there are no Diarrhea issues is the Imodiium still necessary. Also can I and should I take all the products listed above as prescribed. I am also from my Doctor Gaba Pentin 600 mg 3 times a day. 4 gr of Lorazapan (sp) 60 gr of symbalta and 6 grams of Nabalone (again sp) Can you give me some insight on my situation.
Matt ,
You are very knowledgeable about suboxone.
So can you please tell me what you know about buprenorphine / suboxone and weight gain ? Most people I have read consistently complain about this and constipation .. I for sure have major issues with BOTH .. and any help or ideas on how to combat both problems .
Thank you so very very much !
You are a God send
Jeff
Hi Jeff,
Weight gain? Usually that is caused by Opioid-Induced Endocrinopathy. Please read this article which has info on that:
https://opiateaddictionsupport.com/how-to-increase-libido-while-taking-suboxone-methadone-and-other-opiates/
And for constipation most people on Subs will take a fiber supplement.
Your information is the best article I have EVER read on suboxone ! Thank you so much for taking the time to write this !
It’s VERt appreciated ! Makes. Ton of sense to me why I am so tired most of the time , can’t concentrate , stay up all night , have gained significant weight , have had major issues in realeinships , in fact it cost me my last 5 relationships now that I think about it .
It basically has taken a decade away from me.. much like the frog in the frying pan scenario .
Another question … I take the white pills calke buprenorphine .. I assume same as suboxone still … I also have had ADHD for 30 years … before everyone seemed to have it .. I truly have it you follow me … so in hopes of relief from suboxone .. I got doctor to prescribe me adderal again after not taking it for a while .. Ab it actually has helped at times ! I have gone a few days where I didn’t have to take the suboxone because of it you follow me … and it is not extended release .. so I’m thinking now if I get extended release of it … that could greatly help me as I taper off even more ? You follow me ? Any thoughts … how do you cut pills effectively though into like 1/16th … smallest I can do is 1/8 of a pill which is my next step
Jeff
It is hard to cut the pills that small and I wish they made and prescribed liquid formulations that would be easier to microdose. But they make money when you stay on the meds, so making it easier to come off wouldn’t be good for business. Some people make their own liquid formulations by dissolving the tablets into water and keeping them in the fridge locked up in a lock box. Ask your doctor about this.
I have been struggling with being on suboxone for nearly 10 years now .. I have tried several times … and honestly was worst experience of my entire life …. even worse than my actual wreck which is why I am in this position in the first place ! I got hit by a drunk driver at 123 mph in 2006 . Before that I was a very hard worker and lived healthy life . It basycally has destroyed my life …. before I had many friends ! Was happily married … now all I do is sit at home watch tv and have totally lost all my confidence in myself!
I have gained over 45 pounds .. I cannot lose thus weight no matter what I do ! So this kills my dating life as you can imagine .. I no Kim red am myself by any stretch of the imagination . I have pretty much given up hope . I only take like 1/4 of a suboxone every day .. but doesn’t matter I have done this for two years now ….. but if I don’t have it for several days I get beyond sick
Sick is worthy to describe his miserable it can be .. and even worse no one understands
I watched the movie castaway the other night and that movie is how I have become !
I have truly been on a deserted island for 10 years . I am literally too afraid of going through the HELL of withdrawals to stop . I am a very tough person Also or once was ..
Any advice you can give me on tapering off I would owe you my life almost
Would do anything to get off of it . I also am too afraid to pay to go into addiction clinic because of cost and I am afraid it won’t work . I’ve read that withdrawal can last years ?
Please help 🙁
God Bless
Jeff Padgett
Nashville , Tennessee
Age 49
Very well put together article. I have been on suboxone for 4 years and only got off once (stopped cold turky at 4mg a day when i went to jail for 2 weeks) besides insomnia and anxiety didnt feel any other symptoms strangely which leads me to think its 90% mental. Ive been back on subs for about a year and im going to try your method and hope for the best. One thing all these websites have in common is excersize which I believe is very important. Its a good way to make yourself tired at night if nothing else and keeps your body constantly healing itself. Anyways thanks for the advice im going to follow this to the T stating this week i will post my results in 3- 6 months.. good luck everybodd mind over matter if you really want to stop you will!
please do post your progress/success and how you did it. Is so useful for others! Good luck!
If you made it 3 days without taking suboxone then you’re basically no longer addicted to the meds so why would you take more after that third day and start the cycle all over again.
Plus .25 mg is such a small amount by the time you reach that you should be able to stop.
When you taper off like that your basically cutting down your withdrawal symptoms until they are barely noticeable. After a few days of taking .25 mg it’s such a small amount your body should barely even notice it no being there.
Thanks for the comment Brian, however, I’ve worked with and corresponded with hundreds of people that would tell you otherwise. Jumping off Suboxone, even at the low amount you mentioned, is still painful. And what you said about not being addicted after 3 days off Suboxone? Drug tests often show buprenorphine still in the body for up to 2-3 weeks after coming off the medication. Where are you getting your information from sir?
I know I’m extra late with this reply but just wanted to back you up, my boyfriend was down to .25 mgs a day and would still get sick if he didn’t take it. Yes the wd was minimal compared to before but he was by no means finished with the wd symptoms. Also the 3 day mark does not mean someone isn’t “addicted” I think they may be using the wrong term for that. But if they mean the wd symptoms are over at that point, I believe they are just getting started for some.
No no no. I’m on day 5 or 6 after tapering probably too fast, and am still extremely uncomfortable and useless. I think it’s different for everyone, and dependent on a multitude of factors. I’m praying I can get through this.
Yay!! Glad to read this fit the past 4 days I’ve only taken 1/4 a little ■ and today I took my last one. I’m already anxious. But so glad I found this page!! Going on FB sobox page next. Going to stay on my 300mgs of welbutrin as well also have 1mg of Xanax XR time release so no “high” attempt there. I’m going to get on Amazon and start ordering vitamins. I just told my husband I took my last piece and he said “yea so now w can have sex?” Lol poor guy. Thank you!! I feel encouraged. After 6 hrs of this horrible drug. 2 yrs 2 months on sobox.
Hi thanks for the article it was motivating.i feel fine when i take 2 mg.so in your opinion if i dont get any withdrawals at 2mg then it should be easier for me to get off of it right?
Thank you so much Matt for providing all of this information on this website. I have been looking for years for smart, informed advise on how to get off of Suboxone. My first question is during the taper, when do you recommend taking all of the supplements, meds, etc. that you have outlined? I am presently down to 1mg daily, after 6 years on suboxone (mostly at 2 to 4 mg), and start to feel symptoms after about 30 hours of taking nothing. So by this schedule, it seems that I would be going through symptoms for several weeks while still tapering (when it gets to skipping days). Is it ok to start taking the phenibut or kratum, etc at this stage?
I would just go for it, but with work and life, I can’t lose that much time and need to schedule carefully. Thank you so much for all you have done! You are the only one out there that has!
Hi Holly,
So glad this info helped! As far as the supplements go, if it were me I would get on them right away, regardless of taper. This helps your body start to not need as much of the drug and then tapering should become easier. At the latest, you would want to start taking the supplements when you notice symptoms from the taper (fatigue, insomnia, depression, etc.)
As for kratom and phenibut, those are for when a person comes off Subs or other opioids completely. Not the best for tapering in my opinion. If you have any more questions I’m here for you. 🙂
Thanks Matt – again, you are providing a very much needed resource. You deserve to be recognized.
Another, question.. if taking calm support, multi-vit, DLPA, Vit. C, Alpha liprioc acid and Fish oil, is it necessary to also take the supplements mentioned in your other articles, i.e., L-Tyrosine, Passion flower, etc.? It’s a long list when you add them all up (and quite costly). But does a one shop stop, like Calm Support cover enough of one’s needs in the supplements department?
Also adding the Morning Tonic…have heard wonderful reviews on that, especially raw reishi and ginseng. But that I suppose is extra if you can afford it and have the energy to actually make it and drink it.
If it means anything to anyone out there trying to taper, I have been tapering for 5 weeks now, (down to 24 hours. Sure it will get worse when I jump, but so far so good. Keep the good information coming Mat!
Hello! Been on 2 8mg strips 4 almost 2 years now. Finally I’m getting off this ridiculous merry go round called Suboxone. Anyway, tt my doc numerous times about taper which he just acted oblivious to my requests time & time again hence..why I have no choice but to do this myself!
Over the last couple weeks I have read many many articles on the taper process etc. Wondered what your thought are about doing a 3 to 5 day medically supervised detox in a hospital setting? Never did anything like that before and just being honest that about 10 years ago I detoxed @ home off of Oxycontin & thought I was gonna die.
I know it’s possible to get off Suboxone of course but just wanted to know your thought on doing it in a medically supervised way.
Thank u in advance
Sandra M
Some people do that with great success. Sub withdrawal lasts longer than short-acting opiates so that’s important to remember, but as long as they give you the right meds there it can help a lot. Then you just have to manage post acute withdrawal symptoms which is a pain, but helped by exercise, nutrition, and supplements, among other integrative modalities.
I’ve been on suboxone for 4 years now, I have 50 weeks of suboxone left. I’m currently taking a 2mg strip and cutting it into 6 pieces to last 6 days! Not sure exactly what dose that is but I’m thinking it’s around .3? Any advice on what I should do next? I’m so low that I feel like I’m ready to taper but part of me is scared, so I figure I might as well finish my last year of medicine, the longer I’m clean the better right? I’m just wondering since I have so much medicine left, when do I cut the dose down even more? I seriously THANK YOU so much for this article because the whole time I’ve been on suboxone I haven’t found anything this informative! My doctor wasn’t even this much of a help! I learned stuff I never knew about detox which I thought I knew it all! A million times thank you!!!
In the last week I have gone from 16mg that I have taken for about a year to 4mg. Definetely a shock to the system but I am extremely motivated. I plan on going to 2 in a few days and only do that for about 5 days. I am trying my best to follow the regime you describe however, I just relocated (luckily to a beautiful tropic seaside location) and between jobs so I only have a couple of weeks to detox. I was wondering about HTP 5 and L-tyrosine since I can’t find DPL and is too expensive for me to mail order. Since DPL converts into tyrosine, is it okay to supplement for that? Also, I can’t afford the calm support so can I supplement HTP and 2000mg of Magnesium? And if these are affable subsitusions how much should I take?
Oops I meant Scott not Matt!! A little scattered.
Aimee,
https://opiateaddictionsupport.com/l-tyrosine-for-opiate-withdrawal/
https://opiateaddictionsupport.com/how-to-use-5-htp-for-opiate-withdrawal/
These articles should help you.
~Mary
OAS RECOVERY SPECIALIST
Hi Matt,
I left a comment about a week ago but I can’t seem to locate any response or the comment. I’ve got myself into a situation.. I WAS on suboxone for 4 years, tapered real slow, and then I got off completely using supplements and IV nutrient infusions back in April (still had the worst withdrawal that lasted a month)… anyway, I had been off subs for about 5 months… and then I started having cravings and relapsed on opiates last month (sept) for a week, so I decided to take some left over sub (very small doses), for 5-7 days and then put an end to it. Problem is, I ended up taking the sub for more than 5-7 days, bc of the energy it gave me, I was more productive than ever… and now it’s been 4 weeks that I’ve been back on sub, except only taking .25- .5 a day. I need to be off like now bc I know where this leads. Even though it’s been such a short amount of time and I’ve been taking so little, I already feel withdrawal when I don’t take it. My question is… what would be the best plan for me personally to to keep off sub without bad withdrawal all over again? I do have a script of Klonopin, some percs, and some med grade amino acid supplements. The last dose I took of sub was .25 (maybe even less) yesterday at noon, and I haven’t taken anything today but I have restless legs already and absolutely no energy. I was thinking of skipping days with subs and then transferring to your short acting opiate plan for a few days – then benzo for a few days plan… or going straight to the opiate-benzo plan tomorrow (bc it’ll be day 3 of no subs)…. or should I do this all different considering my sub use has been much shorter this time, at much lower doses?? Your advice would be greatly appreciated ASAP!
I believe I answered this today.
I never comment on anything but I wanted to say THANK YOU
Matt,
I had read somewhere that for dlpa to work you need vitamin c as well as B vitamins. Is this true or can you take dlpa alone?
Tommy,
You are correct that other nutrients are needed as cofactors or precursors to dopamine. Vitamin C, B6, B12, Foliate & Magnesium all all helpful for its production.
~Mary
Ok thanks Mary. Will a multivitamin suffice or should I buy them separately?
Tommy,
A good multi should suffice, but remember, the best way for the body to absorb vitamins is through food. Dark leafy greens (like spinach, kale) are full of these necessary vitamins. Consider food choices like bananas, poultry, nuts & seeds, citrus foods, fish, fresh vegetables. Epsom salt baths are a great way for the body to absorb magnesium, as it absorbs through the skin. The minerals magnesium and zinc have been proven to help repair problems with the brain. Lastly, since you pointed out that extra vitamins and minerals are necessary for the brain to develop dopamine I want to add that there are factors that inhibit its production also. Stopping or at least drastically cutting back on sugars and certain carbohydrates will give you the best benefits from dlpa.
~Mary
Great. Appreciate it Mary.
I just have to say; coming across your site is a God send for me. It was actually my wonderful daughter who found you and sent me the link. I’m going to start tapering off Suboxone next week under my Doctors care however, the medical system doesn’t give one much information on natural, safe ways to do so. Their answers are more drugs. We’ve ordered the Calm Support and have purchased DLPA locally. I also plan on using your schedule to the best of my ability. I haven’t been on it that long so I anticipate a fairly smooth detox; especially if I follow your recommendations. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me a life line. A plan and information are very empowering and you have obviously dedicated much of your time to this . I think you’re an angel on this earth. Bless you.
Hi Matt * Thank you so much for the article! I wanted to ask you about a question I had simply because I haven’t taken Suboxone. I’ve been taking 3 10 milligram hydrocodone/2x a day (+) for about 5 years now. I want to get off opiates completely and have 3/4.2 bunavail strips I’ve gotten from a friend. My question is…because i havent taken them before and only have 3 strips, do u think cutting these into small pieces to kick the opiate habit is a good idea?
Hi Scott, Thank you so much for the article! I wanted to ask you about a question I had simply because I haven’t taken Suboxone. I’ve been taking 3 10 milligram hydrocodone/2x a day (+) for about 5 years now. I want to get off opiates completely and have 3/4.2 bunavail strips I’ve gotten from a friend. My question is…because i havent taken them before and only have 3 strips, do u think cutting these into small pieces to kick the opiate habit is a good idea?
Hi my name is Ethan. I am 31 and am a father of 3. My opiate dependence stems prior to becoming a parent. Since becoming a parent i have been on suboxone maintenance for 5 years. After switching doctors I have managed to get myself down from 8mg to 1 -2 mg a day. I struggle daily bouncing between 1 and 2 mg doses. Its hard to lower my dose and be a productive father and husband, and Excell at at work. ( my job -Union carpenter and being a parent are extremely demanding ) I feel that I’ve always been a pretty energetic person. And since making the decision to taper off I’ve struggled with that as well as struggle with my motivation levels. At any rate I’ve been scouwering the internet for any content on information that could help me in this process. Today I stumbled across this article and have read it twice . and plan on reading it again to take notes. I am so encouraged and motivated to follow your advice and steps. Finally tomorrow seems promising knowing i am now armed with this knowlege you’ve given me. I am going to try to keep posting on my progression and create a video diary of this journey of getting heathly the right way with following the guide you’ve given. The work starts now. Thank you for putting this out there I can’t tell you enough how much I appreciate it.
Thank you
Ethan
Were you able to get off it ?
Jeff
I have 20 5.7/1.4 zubsolv tablets left, which is the same as 8mg suboxone strips. My insurance was cancelled so this is all I have. What would your advice be for a faster taper for someone in my situation? Thanks.
Here is a cool Suboxone taper calculator I recommend checking out:
http://www.helpmegetoffdrugs.com/taper
Hi Matt!
Thank you so much for this article! I feel so prepared for my partner and I to come off Suboxone.
Here is my question to you:
The most suboxone we have taken is 2mg split into two 1mg doses a day. But for the past 2 months we have consistently taken 1mg a day (every 24-36 hours). We are not tapering down from a very high dosage. So how should we taper from 1mg and for how long? I understand it takes time to taper and that we will experience some withdrawal but we cannot miss work for more than a day. We will be using Calm Support and a herb regime of Passion flower, Kava Kava, GABA and DLPA. so I’m just looking for a little advice more towards our current dosage!
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
Ashley T.
Hi Ashley,
So glad this article was of value to you! As for your question, in my experience, the people I’ve talked to that had the easiest time coming off Subxoone jumped off from dosages between 0.1 and 1.0 mg. Even though you’ve been taking a small amount every day, it’s still a very powerful medication. Here is an article that has a taper calculator that many have found to be useful:
http://www.helpmegetoffdrugs.com/taper
Disclaimer: This comment is for informational use only, and is not medical advice. Always ask you doctor about how you should taper your medication.
Hi Matt. I’m once again perusing your comment section looking for some advice either on my post or one similar and I’m noticing that you are not replying to any of the comments regarding pregnancy?? Is that intentional or do you feel that it is too much of a liability? I feel that your disclaimer pretty much covers the liability part. I am really only wondering if the supplements that you suggest are safe for pregnancy
(given that you’ve spoken to your OB/sub doctor prior to the suboxone taper)? I would love to hear your thoughts.
Sincerely,
Jeni
I’ve commented on several articles on this website about pregnancy. But due to the large number of emails and comments I get on a daily basis, I am unable to answer every single one of them, though I try. Most of the supplements I talk about on this website, including this article, are contraindicated for pregnancy. The best thing to do is go to your doctor with a list of supplements that you would like to try for your Sub taper, then ask which ones you should take. My specialty is primarily with people under normal conditions. When it comes to situations like pregnancy, lyme disease, and when people are on several medications, there are more moving parts to understand. A good tip is to type in the name of the supplement you are interested into the Google search bar, then type in pregnancy contraindications. So it would look like this:
“insert supplement name here” pregnancy contraindications
That is how I find things out.
Hi there.. first off I just wanted to say thank you for everything you’ve done with these suboxone detox articles. It’s nearly impossible to find legitimate advise on the topic from any substance abuse treatment centers in my area.. I have been suffering from addiction for the last 9 years. Was in methadone treatment for 3 years. Decided to quit that on my own and transferred over to suboxone.. it’s been 4 years now and I have reached a point where it’s a “must” for me to get off this drug.. I’ve lost all that is special to me until I can clean up myself .. I have a 30 day detox regiment that I started 3 days ago.. I’m taking 2.35 mg of bunavail, which I’ve heard is a little less difficult to taper from.im letting myself stabilize for 7 days before I plan on jumping down my dose by 50 percent each week until I get to .1 or .5 . I am 100 percent committed to this and have an exercise and diet plan formulated as well.. my question is from your knowledge is 1 month a crazy time line to try and prepare myself for the “jump off”? I work full time and have a ton of responsibility in my life.. I’ve already requested a week off in the beginning of april. Am I setting myself up for failure?
how many mgs are you currently taking/day.
Hi Matt and to repeat the others, THANK YOU. It may be on your site somewhere, but where do I find the taper schedule to taper down Subs before you get to the 2mg stage?
Sincerely,
JHud
It is amazing how many people are going through this terrible issue. I’m trying so hard to taper off suboxone. I’m down to cutting the 8 mg sliced into a quarter a day. It’s been about 3 months that I’ve been doing this. However if I try going even one day without any I feel horribly tired, achy, tense, hot and cold spells and no ambition to move. I can only imagine how bad others feel that have been taking much more than me. Anyway, this website is very helpful and I will be visiting my local health store to try these natural remedies. Thank you Matt for helping all of us through our recoveries
Thanks for leaving a comment Rosie, and yes, there are many people in this difficult situation. Happy to hear this website has helped, and I wish you the best of luck on your journey. 🙂
Hi Matt, I was on prescription painkillers for several years and then switched to suboxone a few months ago. I want to be totally free of these opiates. I am down to .125mg per day on a suboxone taper. Hasn’t been easy, but I feel that I may now be ready to make the “jump” off. My main hurdle is that I suffer from chronic back pain caused by degenerative disc disease. After reading your articles, I feel that DLPA may be beneficial. What dosage would you recommend?
Hi Teresa,
Please read this article which will answer that question: DLPA: A Miracle Supplement For Opiate Addiction Recovery
Hey Matt, Thank you so much for all this free information. You have given me a new found hope and motivation of felling ready to tackle. I haven’t started tapering off subutex yet, but i was wondering if i should start taking any supplements now anyway? The ones I’m wondering about whether i should take now or wait until i have started tapering are ones for……. “Endorphin Deficiency, and Dopamine Deficiency?” You stated all addicts have deficiency’s in these areas, so do u recommend taking supplements now? or would they not be as effective if started taking now for when i got to a very low dose of subutex? I wouldn’t want to mess that up and have them be less effective cause i started taking those supplements now…Or would it only help for when i do make it there? If i should start taking supplements for these Deficiencies can you please let me know which ones specifically for the Endorphin and Dopamine Deficiency? Thanks!!!
Hey I was reading post on here and I need some advise, I’m really SCARED! I have been on suboxne for over ten years ( 8mg. Stripes 3times a day). I’ve been with the same doctor the whole time and I’ve never relapsed, always had a clean urine test. I recently missed a dr. Appt. I have severe depression and sometimes I can’t even get out of bed( I am disabled due to my severe depression). So when I showed up at my suboxne dr. Last week I explained to my councler that my depression has been bad and I needed to get in to see the dr. She took me in to the restroom to watch me give my urine and then took me into her office to talk about what was going on. Long story short she told me the dr. Wasn’t in but I could go to their other location to get my script( she’d call me with a time I could get in) I was out of subs due to missing my appt. me so I needed to get in asap. (I was able to get a couple off a family member that is also on them to get me thru). So later that evening she called and said that my dr. Was no longer gonna give me a script, or even wean me off!! I do NOT have any medication and I’ve been on subs for ten years. Yes I’m guilty of missing my apointment but NEVER came up dirty. I can’t believe a human being could be so cruel. To not even wean me off, wtf?? I’m so scared. I can’t get any off the street, I can’t afford that being on Ssi/ssd. Being without suboxne cold turkey can make ur depression really bad so really worried considering my depression is already bad!! I have a stript that I’ve been cutting off and taking here and there but I’m already starting to feel sick, WHY would a doctor do this. Ten years clean?? Why?? Does anybody have any advise considering I can’t even wean? I’m afraid I can’t get thru this and all other sub Drs around my area have a year waiting list!! What do I do?? My dr. Didn’t even discuss this with me, only my councler over the phone… This isn’t right in my opion. Please any advise??thank u.
Wow! That’s got to be terrifiying! I have been in simililer situations, most of them my fault but scary none the less. Anyway I don’t even think thats legel. You’re eventually going to have to check into a detox. I would definitely try to find another doctor first but if not just go to your local ER.
Bridget, omg, please read Matts detox with high dose vitamin c, they did real research studies and successfully detoxed heavy heroin users with ease, more then one study group, it’s true and after you read it, it makes sense and Matt has an article explaining how to do it with doses, he actually has a few different ways to end your suffering, I’d take advantage and stay off and give your bodie what its really needing, I know it sounds crazy, but it’s true-Your Dr is a cruel s-o-b!, please find info on the site and don’t give up you can do it
Trying to encourage a new life for an important person with this amazing plan. He has the high quality whole food organic multi vitamins and probiotic, …
What BRANDS do you recommend for the supplements DLPA, L-TYROSINE, ETC.? Our brand Garden of Life does not make these specialty supps.
Thanks for the positive message, Im in the process of finishing school to help in the addiction field, eager to help people that are so misunderstood!!!
Hello I have found all this info to be very helpful thus far. I haven’t started my taper off of the subs yet. But I was wondering how u feel or think about any of these medications ur suggesting to take while ur pregnant? I am 7 months pregnant and was supposed to start tapering down on my suboxone from my doctor and have not been able to do it. I have felt as if I need more for it to do anything for me. I have been clean 7 months now and am afraid of tapering down then wanting to use because of it. I get very restless and DEPRESSED when I don’t take the extra suboxone o have been taking and I already feel as if I’m starting to have WD symptoms when I wait longer then 8 hrs to take my next do as e of SUBOXONE. Do u think maybe it’s because I’m pregnant? Need advice
Matt, your my new idol! When I grow up, I want to be just like you! I was on roxys for 3 yrs..bangin in the end, up to 10 a day!..I’m embarrassed to say. (back surgery then MVA messed up the repair). Hated the chase just to feel good. Went to suboxone, last 2 yrs. I’ve tapered down for months, goin down half every 2 wks (never did take the whole strip in a day). I’m at .25 or 1/32 of a strip daily. Except for a little anxiety, I’m ok. Went without for 2 days to c how I would do. DID NOT SLEEP AT ALL. plus RLS. I stopped smokin weed 2 monthes ago also. I will b drug tested in 13 days so alternate drugs uv mentioned are not an option til after the 10th of Dec. I really want to do this. I’ve never been so motivated! But when I can’t sleep, I’ll cut my .25 in half just to sleep. Going in front of the state board of Nursing and I have to b awake and alert….and clean. Right now, I work 5-mn on headset at an extremely fast-paced, fast food place. Been there 2yrs..never missed a day! But I don’t get home til 1ish and mayb in bed by 2 am. I can’t change that yet. I’m 55, was an RN for 33 yrs and FNP for 2 yrs before I couldn’t keep up. I’m trying to make my life better and have so much to live for and I’m thankful. It’s this last little hump I have to get over. I have made my list to go to the natural food store….or anywhere else I need to go. Funds are limited, but I’m willing to spend a whole pay check if I have to (which is about $300). I know ur pbly busy with the holidays but I really need ur advise. I will do exactly as u say. Get back to me when u can.
Hi Susan,
Thanks so much for sharing some of your story. I appreciate you reaching out for help. Also, I’m a bit confused on your question. This article showed a detailed protocol of supplements, did you have any questions on any of them?
Need help asap. I was on fentanyl 75 milligram patch and 40 mg of percocet a day since 2008 for accident on September 23rd I started with a doctor on suboxone detox I got down to 2.5 milligrams and he said to stop I was still having withdrawal so instead I drop it to one milligram. I have been on one milligram for just over one week have two tablets of 2 milligrams left I’m planning to start tomorrow .5 until I run out. Need your advice what can I expect and for how long?
Everyone is different in how they handle the symptoms from coming off Suboxone. It depends on many factors, not just the dose. Some people have a very easy time coming off the medication, and for others, it’s so hard they stay on for years longer than they want to because the symptoms are so long and severe. Of course there are many things that help to relieve symptoms.
Thank you for all your information. My husband is on day 7 of tapering down from taking half a sheet of the 8mg/2mg to the tiniest crumb. He didnt do any skip days at the end. He was on pain pills for years then the subs to get off. He was on the subs for a year. Tapered down like 2 months.
My question is his insomnia is driving him crazy. He cant sleep and once he trues to relax to go to bed he gets butterflies, tingles, crawling out of his skin feeling all over his body. Is this what people call rls?
He is walking and doing yoga, taking the calm support, fish oil, DLPH, hylands restful legs and last night took 1mg of zanax to finally get some sleep. Hes pretty much had insomnia the last 2 weeks. He takes 10mg of adderall in the morning as hes so tired from no sleep.
He said other than that feeling he gets when he finally tries to relax there really had been no bad withdrawl symptoms.
The insomnia and the butterflies (rls) is really hard on him. Will the epsom salt baths help that much, and any other things you think would help? I did read the article on rls.
Thank you again for any info you think could help. Im soooo PROUD of him. Im getting my husband back!
I’m so proud of your husband, and congrats on getting him back! Please refer to the following article in reference to your question:
How To Sleep During Opiate Withdrawal
Hi Matt, I started on zubsolv 8-9 was ago. The doc has me taking 3 pills/day (the equiv of 24mg sub). I have noticed some pretty bad side effects, including weird, deep sleep, crazy dreams, irritability, depression & trouble concentrating. I’ve decided to get off this drug ASAP. How long a taper would you recommend? Should I try to do a faster taper so that I’m on this drug as short a time as possible? This is going to be tough, as I am a lawyer working full time (at a new job), mom to 2 (wonderful) children, and a not-so-supportive spouse. I also have a sub doc who I suspect is a total quack. This doc said I had to commit to bring on the drug 1 1/2 – 2 years, so I fear he will not prescribe me the lower dose zubsolv tablets. As you probably know, those pills are tiny so do not lend themselves to splitting. I do have about 30 of the dissolveable tablets (8mg) which are larger & can, as I understand it, be cut very small with a razor blade or similar. I would appreciate any suggestions you have, as I am worrying about this almost 24/7. Thank you!
Hi Jenny,
Please ask your doctor about tapering procedures. Based on studies I’ve read, longer tapers typically have better results, though regardless of taper length, over 90% of people relapse even after getting off.
Matt I’ve been on Subutex for 10 yrs and have tried and failed many times, I’m 54 yrs old and am currently st 1.5 and each drop I experience SEVERE PAIN in my lower back knees and joints some that I think the drug has mask so I don’t have a lot of hope but I had a question first any suggestions for the pain and second I take Subutex 2mg pills not Suboxone strips any suggestion how to better cut them up I can chop em into fours but they are never uniform and sometimes they crumble but how in the world will I get them into 1/8 the or .025 ? Also I take 1mg in the AM and .5 in the afternoon any suggestions for getting it to 1 dose a day ? Please email your answer as well as post it Thanks PS I’m gonna have many more questions ; )
It seems like these pharmaceutical companies want people on their medications forever. You think they would pills less strong. Maybe you could talk to your doctor about the benefits of switching to buprenorphine film to taper off? As far as pain relief goes, please check out the following article:
16 Epic Natural Painkiller To Use Instead Of Opiates
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose, or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
I was on heroin for a few months and quit with the help of suboxone 9 days ago. So, basically, today was day 9 on suboxone. I was taking about 8 MG a day and I don’t plan on taking anymore. I am worried that I will still have withdrawals from it, even though I have not been on it long. I am going to try the vitamin c and dlpa, do you think that will be enough? I want to try the calmsupport, but it is just so expensive and I would like to avoid having to buy it if possible. Also, do you think my withdrawals will be just as severe as if I was on the suboxone long term?
Hi Kristal,
In my opinion, Suboxone for only 9 days should not be anywhere close to as difficult as being on longer-term. Furthermore, one really only needs vitamin C and nothing else as a “bare bones” method spending the least amount of money for the biggest effects.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose, or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
I just got the Calm Support and DL-Phenylalanine. Has your research and or experience shown its ok to take both at the same time? I was wanting to take them both twice a day but wanted to see your thoughts.
Hi Krissy,
Yes! They really compliment each other and in my experience work very well together. Make sure to read the following article on DLPA:
DLPA: A Miracle Supplement For Opiate Addiction Recovery
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose, or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
You have no idea how much this information has helped my husband and I’m sure thousands of other people. I just wanted to say thank you for caring enough and taking the time to help!
Glad this information helped! Take care.
Ok so I’ve taken sub less than 1 mg for 2 months then 2-4 mg a day for the past 4 months. Tapering isn’t an option for me. I have a full time night job and 4 children, 11, 8, 2 and 1. Im experiencing the first of the withdrawAL symptoms on day 3 and I’m seeing my dr today for help. Not sure how much help bc he also works in a sub clinic. We shall see. My question is dosing for the things I’ve ordered. I’m 125 lb and restarting my zoloft in prep for the depression. I’ve ordered now foods American ginseng, 500 mg. DLPA 500 mg, now sleep veg, and calm support. Should arrive tomorrow. Any help with dosing or any tips on what else to buy would be great. I’m getting immodium only for work, 3 days a week 12 hr. And have aleve, and ibuprofen for pain and goody powder for my migraines that I’m sure will get worse. Getting Epsom salt also and beginning plexus biocleanse (magnesium based ) and plexus Probio 5.
You might benefit from the following dosing protocol, but everyone is different, so this is just a sample of what someone might take:
Ginseng: 1-2,000 mg 2-3x daily
DLPA: 1-2,000 mg 2-3x daily
Sleep – As directed on the bottle, or double the dosage.
Imodium – As directed on package, or up to 2-4x the recommended dosage.
NSAIDS – As needed for pain.
Epsom Salt bath – 2 cups of epsom salt in a hot bath and soak for at least 20 minutes or longer.
Calm Support – As directed on bottle.
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
Feeling inspired after reading this. I have been an opiate addict all my life. The suboxone for about a year. I want happiness again. I am going to do this. I like your approach to getting off the drug. It sounds so healthy and natural. Understanding the brain chemistry. I am 64 years old, in good health otherwise but have suffered from anxiety depression all my life. The opiates helped with that. As I mentioned, I want happiness and peace.
I’m so glad you are inspired after reading this information Joanne. I know you will find the happiness and peace you are looking for if you make it a “must” for your life. Take care.
HI Joanne, I too am inspired by Matts article. I’m 61 yrs old and have struggled with Opiate addiction for many years myself. Over the last year or so, I’ve come to the realization, I’ve missed out on so much of my life having wrestled with addiction issues. I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired and a major change is in the works for me. The key to my success, and I believe it is for all of us, is staying connected to like minded individuals who are there to encourage and support us.
Good Luck to You,
Rick
I have just one question: in the recipe for the Morning Tonic, do you mean 3-4 drops or 3-4 full droppers like physical bottles?? Help please!
I mean stick the dropper all the way in the bottle and get as much as it will hold, then squirt it all into the glass.
I am ready to get off suboxone. In fact, I have been for 2 weeks. I didn’t have a plan and thought it would be easy, since I only take .25 a day. I was SO WRONG! I am going back to my doctor to get enough 2 mg strips to complete the slow taper you recommend. my question is when should I start taking the supplements? I have read so much on your site, my brain is fried! Thank you any and all suggestions. Does Whole Foods carry most herbs/ supplements?
Hi Jen,
Usually the best time to start taking the supplements is when you begin to feel symptoms from the taper. For instance, if you start to get low energy, depression, insomnia, or other symptoms, then it’s probably best to start the supplements at that point. Whole Foods has some of the supplements, others need to be purchased online. Good luck! And I’m here to help you along the way if you have any more questions.
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
Matt I first want to say that what you are doing is amazing! I know this plan gives me hope and it has to give many others hope as well. I do have a question, how hard will it be to taper an take DLPA but still working every day I have tried many times to detox but have failed an every time I just get back up an try again. Now that I have read so much on suboxone withdrawal I have to have plan an I want to win this battle but I can’t let my family suffer because of my decisions. any help would be great! Thanks
Hi Kyle,
If you REALLY want to kick things up a notch, read the following article:
How To Get Your Energy Back After Quitting Opiates
One of the common problems people experience while tapering off Suboxone is extreme fatigue. The above article can shed some light on some more tips to help you on your journey. If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. Take care Kyle.
Hey Matt,my name is Scott,my ex wife got me on 30’s for about a year, I did them just to do them,then it started to get expensive,so I didn’t want to do them any more,so someone told me about suboxones,so I started taking them,not knowing that if you stop taking them,that you can still get sick,it’s been about 5 years now, and I’ve been taking 4mgs in the morning,and 4 mgs at night. For 5 years now,what is the easiest way to stop.? I was never an addict,I just liked the drip.I need to be done once and for all.help me out,thanks
Hi Scott,
Well, there are many ways to get off Suboxone. This article merely presented one approach. I encourage you to read the following section of this website as well to get more ideas:
Articles on getting off Suboxone…
Hey Matt. I just wanted to say thanks for this article. I followed the taper just as you laid it out. Ive now been off Suboxone for 6 weeks.
Just went from heroin to subbies. I think it’s amazing what he doing. I’m in London,UK & have been using a lot of years. In the drug project a few weeks ago I was able to pass yr details onto an older lady who had used methadone 20_30 years and had come off herself. She was already off for 9 no this & still feeling shit. I directed her to yr website after readings about PAWS. The last time I came off went on forever & no one really understood. Anyway. Yr amazing. Sori 4 jumping on this comment. Couldn’t see how to leave one. It’s 6am my time & I’m too excited to sleep cos I kno I’m gonna change my life.
Bless 🌠
Yes change your life! Yahooo!! 🙂
Hi Matt,
Need a plan. I have lyrica,clonidine,vitamins ,and trazodone. I can’t find the post for getting off heroin using these substances. Waiting to be in perfect harmony with my soul.
Thank you Matt
Duane
Hi Duane,
Make sure to ask your doctor which amounts of medicine to use. Congrats to you for getting all that stuff together!! I didn’t write an article on getting off heroin using these substances, but I did write individual articles on those three medications. I’ll post links to them here so you can see typcial dosing and cautions.
How To Use Lyrica For Opiate Withdrawal>>
How To Use Clonidine For Opiate Withdrawal>>
How To Use Trazodone For Opiate Withdrawal>>
I’m sorry. But I’ve been on for two years …down to .125mgs. In your picture you detail what an 8mg strip looks like cut into 1mg portions
There are 10 pieces…there should only be 8!!!!
This could be confusing to some
8/1 mg pieces = 8 mgs
Right !!??
Or am I missing something
Other than that I do agree to the taper schedule
Eric I was thinking the same 8mg should be 8 pieces to make it a gram a piece Unless like you said maybe I’m missing something
Yes,
I agree..why are there 10 pieces of the strip? Is this just a mistake?