INFORMED CONSENT FOR SUBOXONE
Buprenorphine is a treatment for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). This handout provides information about OUD and buprenorphine.
WHAT IS OPIOID USE DISORDER (OUD)?
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a medical illness caused by use of opiates over time. In OUD, opiates cause problems in a person’s life. These problems may include negative effects on physical health, mental health, emotional well-being, relationships, and/or work. In OUD, opioids cannot be easily stopped or reduced.
Science shows that taking an opiate for an extended period of time can change the chemistry in the brain, and throughout the body. These changes mean relief wears off over time while side effects and dependence get worse. Many people find they need larger amounts of the drug to feel at their baseline. Others struggle to stop or cut down. This is not a will power problem. It becomes a medical problem.
OUD can also happen when someone uses opioids only as prescribed by a doctor, as a side effect of pain treatment. The risk of OUD increases with stronger opioids and the longer time period of use. OUD is an illness that does not discriminate – it can happen to anyone who uses opioids over months or years.
As with other medical illnesses, OUD feels different for different people. Some people find their days must be planned around opioids. Some people give up things they enjoy because of side effects. Some can’t keep up with responsibilities at home, school, or work. Some people use more opioids than they should because they are scared, hurting, anxious, depressed or feeling desperate. Some people have cravings for opioids. Many people with OUD hate being dependent on opioids, yet find it hard to imagine living without them.
SHOULD YOU CONSIDER BUPRENORPHINE?
What is Buprenorphine?
Safer than other opioids
Provides similar pain relief
Treats opioid use disorder
Replaces other opioids while reducing side effects
Less likely to cause overdose
Stops the cycle of pain/withdrawal
How to Take Buprenorphine
Taken as a tablet or film under the tongue (do not swallow whole).
Usually once daily.
Must be started in moderate withdrawal for best results.
If taken too soon after other opioids, withdrawal can be triggered.
How to Start Buprenorphine
Plan with your prescriber.
Some begin at home, others in clinic.
Stop short-acting opioids at least 12 hours before.
Stop long-acting opioids at least 24 hours before.
Dosage is adjusted over 1–4 days.
Suboxone vs. Methadone
Methadone is an opioid treatment requiring federally certified facilities.
Unsafe with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other drugs.
Misuse can lead to addiction or overdose.
Behavioral Health Solutions cannot prescribe methadone.
Important Information
Withdrawal Symptoms
Before starting buprenorphine, withdrawal must begin. Symptoms may feel like the flu and include:
Irritability, poor sleep, pain
Chills, sweats, restlessness, nausea, diarrhea
Goosebumps, yawning, tremors, runny nose, anxiety
These symptoms improve quickly after buprenorphine begins.
Side Effects
Less severe than other opioids, but may include:
Drowsiness
Constipation
Sweating
Nausea or vomiting
Headaches/body aches
Dangerous combinations: alcohol, sedatives, benzodiazepines, or sleeping pills.
How Long Should I Take Buprenorphine?
No single answer fits everyone.
Long-term use (years) is often more effective than short-term.
Most people should continue at least 6–12 months before tapering.
Discontinuation should be gradual, with provider support.
Financial Responsibility (Fee for Service)
Clients are responsible for payment regardless of insurance coverage.
Credit card authorization is required.
Payment due at appointment (includes co-pays, deductibles, cancellations).
Balances over 30 days or above $150 may pause services.
Accounts may be sent to collections if unpaid.
Special Note on Documentation
Providers may use live scribe services or AI transcription. All records are protected under HIPAA.
Insurance and Liability
Patient authorizes release of info for insurance claims.
Copays/deductibles are due at time of service.
Insurance denial = patient responsibility for payment.
Benefits/authorizations are not a guarantee of payment.
Insurance only covers services deemed “reasonable and necessary.”
Pre-Certification
Some insurers require preauthorization.
Patients must obtain authorization for out-of-network care.
Lack of preauthorization may result in uncovered charges.
Refunds
Only issued if overpayment occurs.
Medicaid/Medicare
Counseling services are fully covered.
No charges, deductibles, or copays.
Agreement & Form
By signing, you acknowledge:
Understanding of Suboxone treatment, financial responsibility, and insurance policies.
Agreement to charges for services, cancellations, and missed appointments.
Awareness that treatment duration and costs depend on individual needs.