What happens if I stop taking medication?
If you stop methadone or buprenorphine, it can lead to opioid withdrawal. Stopping naltrexone will not cause withdrawal. Stopping your medication can also put you at risk for opioid overdose and death.
What is opioid withdrawal? What are the symptoms?
- Opioid withdrawal refers to the wide range of symptoms (e.g., irritability, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, itchiness, anxiety, runny nose) that occur after stopping the use of opioids, including medications like buprenorphine or methadone.
- Using medications to control withdrawal, such as methadone or buprenorphine (also called withdrawal management), is always recommended over trying to quit “cold turkey.” These medications can prevent overdose and death if taken as prescribed.
- Cravings increase once medication for opioid use disorder is stopped and can lead to a return to opioid use, which in turn can lead to overdose and death.
What is withdrawal management, and what does it entail?
- Withdrawal management (“detox”) is not full treatment for opioid use disorder. It is only one part of the overall treatment plan.
- If you take buprenorphine or methadone for withdrawal management, it is recommended that you continue taking this medication for as long as recommended
- Opioid withdrawal should be avoided during pregnancy due to fetal risk and potential for returning to use. Buprenorphine and methadone are safe to take (as prescribed) during pregnancy.
- Any plans to stop taking a medication, change dosage, or switch medications should always be discussed with your doctor or care team and your counselor— this should be a shared decision, with all benefits and risks discussed and understood between you and your providers. No one should mandate or pressure you to stop, reduce, or change your medications.
