Top 5 Suboxone Alternatives to Opioid Addiction Treatment

If, for some reason, suboxone is not working for you, the top 5 FDA-approved alternatives are: ¹

1. Naltrexone Prescription Program 
2. Methadone Program
3. Subutex Medication-Assisted Treatment Program
4. Zubsolv
5. Injectable Buprenorphine (Brixadi and Sublocade)

Each of these medications works differently, offering clients and treatment providers the flexibility to choose the most effective and personalized approach towards opioid addiction treatment. 

ChoicePoint offers an online MAT clinic and prescriptions for suboxone and alternatives to Suboxone used in opioid addiction treatment. Call 844.445.2565 to get your insurance-covered prescription today!

CALL NOW FOR FREE SCREENING

What Can You Replace Suboxone With? 5 FDA-Approved Alternatives to Suboxone Treatment

Although suboxone is a highly effective and widely used medication, it may not be the best fit for people:

• Experiencing side effects that are not subsiding
• Having an allergic reaction or intolerance
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after use
• Concerned about the risk of misuse
• Concerned about cost, insurance, or availability of this medication.

You may replace suboxone with Buprenorphine, Zubsolv, Methadone, Naltrexone, or Brixadi and Sublocade injections. These FDA-approved alternatives are divided into two categories: one with buprenorphine as the main active ingredient and others with different active ingredients.

Non-Burenorphine Alternatives

Suboxone has two active ingredients: Naloxone and Buprenorphine. If you are looking for different active ingredients, you may consider:

1. Naltrexone

Naltrexone is an FDA-approved opioid antagonist for treating opioid use disorder after you have completed detoxification. ² Naltrexone is available in two forms: ReVia (Naltrexone Tablets) and Vivitrol (Naltrexone Injections) ³

How Does Naltrexone Differ from Suboxone?

Naloxone and Suboxone differ by:

1. Mechanism of Action: Naltrexone contains Naltrexone Hydrochloride, an active ingredient that is a full opioid antagonist. Naltrexone works by fully blocking the receptors, whereas suboxone partially blocks the receptors.
2. When Treatment Can Begin: Vivitrol can only be administered at Vivitrol clinics after opiate detox to avoid precipitated withdrawal symptoms. Whereas Naltrexone pills can be prescribed online. On the contrary, suboxone treatment can be started sooner during mild withdrawal. ⁴
3. Treatment Outcomes: Naltrexone is a maintenance medicine that helps to maintain complete abstinence by blocking opioid effects. Whereas, suboxone is started during detox to ease cravings and withdrawal.
4. Formulations: Naltrexone is available as a daily oral pill or a once-monthly injectable (Vivitrol). Suboxone comes in sublingual films and round orange tablets, which are typically taken daily.
5. Who Is It Best For: Naltrexone is widely covered by insurance and recommended for individuals who have completed detox. It is a non-opioid treatment option that reduces relapse by reducing cravings and blocking the effects of opioids. Online Naltrexone prescriptions are available, adding to convenience.
6. Challenges and Drawbacks: Naltrexone requires complete detox before starting, which can be a barrier. Another challenge is that because naltrexone blocks opioids, a person’s tolerance to opioids goes down. If they use the same amount of opioids they took before treatment, the body cannot handle it, which may result in an overdose. However, the benefits of Naltrexone outweigh its side effects, making it an effective medication.

Find more details about Naltrexone vs. suboxone similarities and differences.

2. Methadone

Methadone is an FDA-approved long-acting opioid agonist used in the treatment of opioid use disorder as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT). ⁵ It reduces drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Differences between Suboxone and Methadone are:

1. Mechanism of Action: Methadone is a full opioid agonist that activates opioid receptors in the brain, reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. ⁶
2. When Treatment Can Begin: Methadone can be initiated without requiring complete detoxification, even while opioids are still present in the body, making it accessible for patients who have difficulty tolerating withdrawal.
3. Treatment Outcomes: Methadone is highly effective in improving treatment retention and reducing illicit opioid use. ⁶
4. Formulations: Methadone is most commonly available as an oral liquid solution dispensed daily at licensed opioid treatment programs (OTPs). Tablet and dispersible forms are also available under medical supervision.
5. Who Is It Best For: This medicine is most suitable for individuals with severe or long-standing opioid dependence who require intensive, structured treatment and may not achieve stability with partial agonists like Suboxone.
6. Challenges and Drawbacks: The treatment requires daily visits to a certified Methadone clinic in the early phases, which may limit accessibility. Because it is a full opioid agonist, it carries risks of misuse, respiratory depression, and overdose, particularly if combined with other sedatives. Long-term use may also lead to physical dependence, requiring careful tapering under medical supervision.

Suboxone and methadone can not be taken together. So, if you are thinking of making a switch, please contact licensed online Suboxone doctors at ChoicePoint.

Buprenorphine Alternatives

1. Subutex

Both Subutex and suboxone are oral formulations of Buprenorphine. Though brand-name Subutex has been discontinued, the generic formulations are available.

Subutex pill is similar to suboxone, without the Naloxone active ingredient. It is often prescribed in specific cases, such as during pregnancy or for patients who cannot tolerate naloxone. ⁷

1. Mechanism of Action: Subutex contains only buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist that reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
2. Formulation: These are available as 8mg white pills, Subutex orange pills, and other dosages and formulations.
3. Misuse Potential: Subutex has a higher risk of misuse since it lacks naloxone; Suboxone is considered safer against diversion due to the naloxone component.
4. Prescribing Situations: Subutex is sometimes preferred for pregnant individuals or patients allergic to naloxone.
5. Cost: Subutex (brand) has been discontinued, but generic buprenorphine is available and often less expensive. ⁸
6. Availability: Subutex can be easily prescribed via online Subutex doctors.

Read a detailed guide on: Subutex vs suboxone.

ChoicePoint Subutex doctors are accepting new patients and dispensing online Subutex prescriptions. Call 844.445.2565 to schedule an appointment.

2. Zubsolv

Zubsolv is a sublingual tablet that contains both buprenorphine and naloxone. It is designed for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Zubsolv is similar to Suboxone but with improved bioavailability, meaning patients can take lower doses for the same effect. Zubsolv is also formulated to dissolve quickly and has a mint flavor for easier administration. ⁹

3. Injectable Buprenorphine (Brixadi and Sublocade)

Brixadi is an extended-release injectable form of buprenorphine used for the treatment of opioid use disorder. It is available in both weekly and monthly dosing options, giving providers flexibility based on a patient’s treatment needs. Sublocade is a once-monthly injectable buprenorphine formulation approved for opioid use disorder treatment. It delivers a steady release of buprenorphine over a month through a subcutaneous injection. It is a Buprenorphine only formulation suitable for people who do not want to take a daily pill.

1. Mechanism of Action: Both Brixadi and Sublocade are extended-release buprenorphine injections that reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
2. Dosing Options: Brixadi offers both weekly and monthly dosing, allowing more flexibility in tailoring treatment.
   Sublocade is only available as a once-monthly injection.
3. Formulation and Administration: Brixadi uses a liquid injection that forms a small depot under the skin and can be given in the arm, thigh, buttock, or abdomen. Sublocade forms a solid gel depot under the skin and is injected only in the abdominal area.
4. Availability: Brixadi is a newer treatment option recently approved in the United States and is being adopted gradually. Sublocade has been available since 2017 and is widely prescribed for the long-term treatment of opioid use disorder. Both Brixadi and Sublocade injections are available at ChoicePoint.

For More Detailed Information: Sublocade vs suboxone, Brixadi vs Sublocade, Sublocade vs vivitrol

Online MAT Prescription in NJ

Over-the-Counter Suboxone Alternatives

Currently, there are no true over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can replace Suboxone for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Suboxone is a prescription-only medication because it contains buprenorphine, a controlled substance, and naloxone, which requires medical supervision for safe use.

Natural Suboxone Alternatives

Some individuals turn to plant-based or “natural” substances as alternatives to Suboxone in managing opioid withdrawal or cravings. While these substances are sometimes promoted as natural remedies, it is important to note that they are not FDA-approved treatments.

One such example is Kratom. Some people use it to self-manage withdrawal symptoms or use Kratom for Suboxone withdrawal. However, kratom itself can cause dependence, withdrawal, and other health risks, including liver toxicity and seizures. The FDA has issued warnings against its use.

Choosing the Right Suboxone Alternative for You

Selecting the most appropriate Suboxone alternative depends on individual circumstances and treatment goals. Factors such as the severity of addiction, medical history, and pregnancy status play a major role in determining which medication may be safest and most effective.

How ChoicePoint Addiction Specialists in NJ Can Help You Make The Right Decision?

At ChoicePoint, our board-certified addiction specialists provide individualized assessments to determine the best alternative to Suboxone for your unique needs. We consider your medical history, lifestyle, and recovery goals to recommend a treatment plan that maximizes safety and long-term success. With both in-person and telehealth options, ChoicePoint bridges the gap between clients and doctors with same-day appointments.

Insurance Partners With ChoicePoint

We partner with a wide range of insurance providers to make treatment affordable and accessible. We accept most major plans, including:

• Tricare Insurance
• Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Aetna Health Insurance NJ
• Amerigroup NJ
• Cigna NJ
• Humana NJ
• United Healthcare Insurance
• Amerihealth NJ

You can verify your insurance online or contact our admissions team at 844.445.2565 to verify your benefits and guide you through the insurance process. This will help you focus on recovery without worrying about unexpected costs.

CALL NOW FOR FREE SCREENING

FAQs Related to Best Alternatives to Suboxone

1. What is the New Medication for Opioid Addiction?

New medications are recently-approved Brixadi and Sublocade injections.  These deliver long-acting buprenorphine, reducing cravings and relapse risk without daily dosing.

2. What’s better, Suboxone or Zubsolv?

Both contain buprenorphine and naloxone. Suboxone is widely available and often cheaper, while Zubsolv dissolves faster, has higher bioavailability, and a more pleasant taste.

3. Why is Suboxone Being Discontinued?

Suboxone sublingual films and generic suboxone are both available, FDA-approved, and safe to use.

References

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Information about medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
   https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medications-opioid-use-disorder-moud
2. Singh, D., & Saadabadi, A. (2023). Naltrexone. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534811/
3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2015, July 17). Naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension (marketed as Vivitrol) information. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
   https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/naltrexone-extended-release-injectable-suspension-marketed-vivitrol-information
4. Alcohol and Drug Foundation. (2025, June 6). Naltrexone.
   https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/naltrexone/
5. National Research Council (US) Committee on Issues Related to the Use of Methadone in Opioid Dependence. (1995). Development of narcotic antagonists. In Federal regulation of methadone treatment (pp. 55–73). National Academies Press (US).
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK232111/
   
6. O’Brien, C. P., & McLellan, A. T. (1996). Myths about the treatment of addiction. The Lancet, 347(8996), 237–240. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1070723/
7. Kosten, T. R., & George, T. P. (2002). The neurobiology of opioid dependence: Implications for treatment. Science & Practice Perspectives, 1(1), 13–20.
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459126/
8. Shreffler, J., Huecker, M. R., & Paul, N. (2022). Substance use disorder treatment in the emergency setting. Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open, 3(5), e12813.
   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9392838/
9. Jarvis, B. P., Holtyn, A. F., Subramaniam, S., Tompkins, D. A., Oga, E. A., Bigelow, G. E., & Silverman, K. (2018). Extended-release injectable naltrexone for opioid use disorder: A systematic review. Addiction, 113(7), 1188–1209. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30117074/