Deciding between Suboxone vs methadone can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting your recovery journey. Both are FDA-approved medications used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to treat opioid use disorder (OUD), but they work in different ways and come with their benefits and considerations.
At Retreat of Broward, we offer both options as part of our evidence-based MAT program, helping individuals choose the path that’s safest and most effective for them.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
MAT is an evidence-based approach to treating opioid use disorder that combines FDA-approved medications with therapy and counseling. It’s developed to reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery by addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction.
At Retreat of Broward, MAT isn’t a universal solution. We personalize each treatment plan based on your history, needs, and goals. Whether you’re starting with Suboxone, methadone, or transitioning from another program, our team ensures your care is safe, effective, and aligned with your path to healing.
More than just medication, MAT is about building stability, restoring confidence, and helping you reclaim your life—with support every step of the way.
What Are Suboxone and Methadone?
Both Suboxone and methadone are FDA-approved medications used to help individuals manage opioid withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program. While they share a common goal, they operate differently in the brain and are administered under different circumstances.
Suboxone Explained
Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine (a partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (an opioid antagonist). It works by partially stimulating opioid receptors to reduce cravings and withdrawal without producing a high. Because of its lower risk profile, Suboxone is often prescribed in outpatient settings and can be taken at home after medical clearance.
Methadone Explained
Methadone is a full opioid agonist, meaning it fully activates opioid receptors in the brain to block cravings and ease withdrawal. It’s typically reserved for individuals with severe or long-term opioid dependence and is administered daily at licensed clinics under supervision. Methadone has a long-standing track record in treating opioid addiction and remains a trusted option in structured treatment environments.
While both medications serve the same purpose, understanding the difference between Suboxone and methadone can help determine which option best supports your recovery journey.
How They Compare in Practice
Once you understand how each medication works, it’s important to consider how they differ when applied in real-world treatment settings. Here’s how methadone vs Suboxone compares based on key factors that may influence your recovery:
Potency and Effectiveness
- Methadone is often more effective for individuals with high opioid tolerance or who haven’t responded well to other treatments.
- Suboxone provides adequate relief for those with mild to moderate opioid use disorder and is less sedating.
Administration and Access
- Methadone must be taken at a licensed clinic, often requiring daily visits, which adds structure but may limit flexibility.
- Suboxone can be prescribed by certified providers and taken at home, offering more convenience for those with work, school, or family obligations.
Overdose Risk
- Methadone, being a full agonist, carries a higher risk of overdose—especially if combined with other depressants.
- Suboxone has a built-in ceiling effect due to buprenorphine, making overdose less likely in most cases.
Withdrawal Experience
- Methadone withdrawal tends to last longer and may be more intense.
- Suboxone withdrawals are usually shorter and milder, especially when tapered under medical guidance.
Clinical Strengths of Suboxone and Methadone
Both Suboxone and methadone offer distinct clinical strengths that make them effective tools in supporting long-term recovery, depending on each individual’s needs.
Benefits of Methadone
Methadone’s full opioid agonist properties make it especially effective for individuals with high opioid tolerance or long-term opioid use disorder. It provides powerful symptom relief and has been shown to increase treatment retention, helping patients stay engaged in recovery. In clinical settings like Retreat of Broward, methadone is closely monitored, allowing for precise dosage adjustments that support long-term stabilization.
Benefits of Suboxone
Suboxone extends well beyond its strong safety profile. It’s more accessible in outpatient settings, making it a convenient option for individuals who may not be able to attend daily clinic visits. Suboxone effectively reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings without causing heavy sedation, allowing patients to remain alert and functional during treatment.
Who Might Benefit More from One Over the Other
Choosing between Suboxone vs methadone depends on your history, lifestyle, and medical needs.
Consider Suboxone if you:
- Have mild to moderate OUD.
- Like more flexibility or privacy in treatment.
- Have responsibilities (like work or childcare) that limit clinic visits.
Consider Methadone if you:
- Have severe or long-term opioid dependence.
- Haven’t responded well to other medications.
- Benefit from daily supervision and structured care.
At Retreat of Broward, our medical team performs a full evaluation to determine which option is the best fit for each patient.
Side Effects: Methadone vs Suboxone
Like any medication, both Suboxone and methadone can cause side effects—especially in the early stages of treatment as your body adjusts. That said, most symptoms are manageable, and our medical team is here to help minimize any discomfort.
Common Suboxone Side Effects
Suboxone is generally well-tolerated, but you might experience:
- Mild nausea or headache
- Drowsiness or trouble sleeping
- Constipation or dry mouth
These symptoms often improve after the first few days. Because Suboxone includes naloxone (to help prevent misuse), some people feel mild withdrawal-like symptoms at first—but this typically fades quickly.
Common Methadone Side Effects
Methadone may cause:
- Drowsiness or lightheadedness
- Constipation or sweating
- Irregular heartbeat (rare but serious)
Since methadone is a full opioid agonist, it’s essential that dosing is closely monitored. At Retreat of Broward, we adjust doses carefully to ensure safety and reduce side effects.
The bottom line? Everyone reacts differently, and our team is here to make sure your treatment feels as smooth and manageable as possible. If something doesn’t feel right, we’ll work with you to adjust your care.
How We Support MAT Success
At Retreat of Broward, we know that medication alone isn’t enough. True recovery happens when medical care is paired with ongoing support, structure, and a personalized plan. That’s why our approach to MAT is comprehensive, compassionate, and customized to each individual’s journey.
From day one, our team conducts a thorough medical and clinical assessment to understand your history, goals, and unique needs. Whether you’re just starting treatment or deciding between Suboxone vs methadone, we ensure your plan reflects where you are—and where you’re headed in recovery.
We provide:
- 24/7 medical supervision during detox and early stabilization
- Individualized therapy sessions to address trauma, triggers, and emotional health
- Group counseling to build community and accountability
- Aftercare planning that prepares you for life beyond treatment
- Ongoing evaluation and dose adjustments to ensure your medication is effective and safe
Our team works closely with you through each phase of care—offering education, encouragement, and tools to help you build a life rooted in stability, confidence, and long-term recovery. Whether you’re comparing both medications or ready to take that first step, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
Ready to Decide Between Suboxone vs Methadone?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to Suboxone vs methadone. Each has its place in a well-rounded recovery plan. The most important thing is getting started with treatment that fits your life and goals.
If you’re unsure which medication is right for you, we’re here to help. At Retreat of Broward, we offer both Suboxone and methadone through our MAT program and work with you to choose the path that sets you up for long-term success.
Contact us today to learn more about our MAT services and start your recovery journey.
