When it comes to treating opioid use disorder (OUD), medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has proven to be a highly effective strategy. Among the most commonly prescribed medications are Suboxone and Methadone. Both can be life-saving tools on the journey to recovery, but they work in different ways, have unique benefits, and may suit different individuals based on their clinical and personal needs.
At Anchored Recovery Community, we believe in empowering you with knowledge so you can make informed decisions about your recovery. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between Suboxone and Methadone, explore their pros and cons, and help you understand which medication might be best for your recovery path.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. It’s designed to treat the “whole person” — addressing not only the physical symptoms of withdrawal and cravings but also the psychological and emotional roots of addiction.
MAT is particularly effective for opioid addiction, reducing the risk of relapse and improving long-term recovery outcomes. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), MAT helps to:
- Improve patient survival
- Increase retention in treatment
- Decrease illicit opiate use
- Improve birth outcomes among pregnant women with substance use disorders
Two of the most widely used MAT medications are Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) and Methadone. Let’s dive into how they compare.
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a combination medication containing buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist. It’s designed to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the full high of opioids.
How Suboxone Works:
- Buprenorphine partially activates opioid receptors, helping to alleviate withdrawal and cravings without causing intense euphoria.
- Naloxone blocks opioid effects and deters misuse (especially via injection).
Key Benefits of Suboxone:
- Lower risk of misuse due to naloxone
- Ceiling effect: limits the high, reducing risk of overdose
- Can be prescribed in a doctor’s office or outpatient treatment centers
- Available in film or tablet form for easy daily use
What Is Methadone?
Methadone is a full opioid agonist, meaning it fully activates opioid receptors in the brain to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It has been used for decades in treating opioid addiction and chronic pain.
How Methadone Works:
Methadone replaces the opioid in your system with a long-acting alternative, preventing withdrawal symptoms without producing a euphoric high (when taken as prescribed).
Key Benefits of Methadone:
- Highly effective at managing severe opioid dependence
- Long-lasting effects can reduce the need for frequent dosing
- Ideal for patients with a long history of opioid use
However, methadone is typically dispensed through specialized clinics, requiring daily visits during early treatment phases.
Suboxone vs. Methadone: Key Differences
| Feature | Suboxone | Methadone |
| Type of Drug | Partial opioid agonist + antagonist | Full opioid agonist |
| Risk of Abuse | Lower (due to naloxone) | Higher (if misused) |
| Administration | Oral film/tablet (home use) | Liquid/tablet (clinic-based) |
| Availability | Prescribed by certified physicians in outpatient settings | Dispensed at licensed methadone clinics |
| Onset | 30–60 minutes | 30 minutes |
| Duration | 24–72 hours | 24–36 hours |
| Withdrawal Potential | Milder withdrawal symptoms | Stronger withdrawal symptoms upon cessation |
Pros and Cons of Suboxone
✅ Pros:
- Lower overdose risk
- More convenient for outpatient recovery programs like IOP and OP at Anchored Recovery Community
- Less stigma due to its office-based use
- Fewer side effects in most patients
⚠️ Cons:
- May not be strong enough for people with severe opioid addiction
- Some users may still experience mild withdrawal
- Can be expensive without insurance
Pros and Cons of Methadone
✅ Pros:
- Strong efficacy for those with high opioid tolerance
- Long track record of success in MAT
- Offers daily structure in early recovery
⚠️ Cons:
- Potential for misuse and overdose (especially in unsupervised settings)
- Requires daily clinic visits early in treatment
- More stigmatized due to public perceptions
Which Is Better: Suboxone or Methadone?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right medication depends on your:
- History of opioid use
- Severity of addiction
- Medical and psychiatric profile
- Access to treatment clinics
- Lifestyle needs and recovery goals
At Anchored Recovery Community, our clinicians conduct personalized assessments to determine the best MAT approach for each client. In some cases, patients may start on methadone and transition to Suboxone as they stabilize.
Can You Switch from Methadone to Suboxone?
Yes, but the transition needs to be carefully managed under medical supervision. Suboxone’s partial agonist properties can cause precipitated withdrawal if taken too soon after methadone.
The process usually involves tapering methadone to 30 mg or less, followed by a brief opioid-free period before introducing Suboxone. This is why being under the care of an experienced MAT provider is essential.
If you’re considering this change, our team at Anchored Recovery Community can guide you through the process with compassion and clinical expertise.
Are There Side Effects?
Like any medication, both Suboxone and Methadone can cause side effects.
Suboxone side effects:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Anxiety
Methadone side effects:
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Respiratory depression (at high doses)
- Irregular heartbeat
Any side effects should be reported to your treatment provider immediately for monitoring and adjustments.
MAT at Anchored Recovery Community
At Anchored Recovery Community in Orange County, we offer a full continuum of outpatient care supported by MAT options through our trusted medical partners. Our programs include:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- Outpatient Program (OP)
- Sober Living & Aftercare Support
We emphasize a holistic, trauma-informed approach, combining evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and EMDR with mind-body wellness practices including yoga, meditation, and adventure therapy.
Many of our team members are in recovery themselves — creating a judgment-free zone where clients feel understood, supported, and empowered.
To learn more about MAT and recovery options, visit our Programs page or reach out to our caring admissions team at (949) 696‑5705.
Final Thoughts: Your Recovery, Your Choice
Choosing between Suboxone and Methadone can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to make the decision alone. With proper guidance, education, and medical oversight, either option can help you build a life free from the grip of opioids.
At Anchored Recovery Community, we are here to help you heal from the inside out. Whether you’re just starting your journey or seeking support after relapse, we offer personalized, evidence-based care designed around you.