Methadone vs. Suboxone: Which Option Can You Start Faster?

Complete Healthcare Team

When choosing a treatment for opioid addiction, timing matters. For individuals seeking relief from withdrawal symptoms and a pathway to recovery, the speed at which treatment can begin is a crucial factor. Methadone and Suboxone are two of the most common and effective options, but they differ significantly in terms of how and when a patient can start them.

At Complete Healthcare, patients receive personalized guidance in selecting the treatment that best suits their needs. While both medications support long-term recovery, they differ in onset, accessibility, and administration, factors that may determine which one is the faster option for you.

Suboxone

Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, is widely favored for its quick-acting relief and convenience. In most cases, patients can begin Suboxone treatment within 12 to 24 hours after their last opioid use, once withdrawal symptoms have begun. Taking Suboxone too early can trigger precipitated withdrawal, so timing is critical. However, once initiated correctly, Suboxone typically begins working within 30 minutes, effectively suppressing cravings and reducing withdrawal symptoms for up to 24 hours.

Due to changes in federal regulations, Suboxone can now be prescribed by more healthcare providers, making it easier to access without a specialized clinic. At Complete Healthcare, patients can schedule a consultation and receive a personalized Suboxone program with same-day or next-day appointments in many cases. This accessibility makes Suboxone one of the fastest options for those ready to start recovery.

Methadone

Methadone has long been a gold standard in opioid addiction treatment and is especially beneficial for individuals with long-term, high-dose opioid use. Unlike Suboxone, however, methadone is highly regulated and must be administered through a licensed opioid treatment program (OTP). This requirement often creates delays in access, as patients may need to undergo intake evaluations, wait for availability, and attend daily in-person visits to receive their dose.

The medication itself is fast-acting, typically beginning to relieve symptoms shortly after administration, but the process to start methadone can take longer. Detox using methadone can also extend up to six months, depending on the individual’s history and liver function. While a single dose offers quick symptom relief, the body usually takes several days of regular dosing to stabilize.

At Complete Healthcare, patients benefit from a structured methadone program that includes close monitoring, behavioral counseling, and full-spectrum support. For individuals who require a more intensive approach or who haven’t responded to Suboxone in the past, methadone remains a highly effective solution. However, it may not be the fastest option to begin without prior preparation.

Which Treatment Can You Start Faster?

For most individuals seeking quick relief, Suboxone is typically the faster option for starting treatment. It requires less regulatory oversight, can be prescribed in-office by certified healthcare providers, and begins working quickly after the onset of withdrawal symptoms. Many patients can receive their first dose within 24 hours of deciding to start treatment.

Methadone, while equally effective for long-term maintenance, usually involves more steps before treatment can begin. Patients must visit an OTP, undergo intake assessments, and adhere to stricter scheduling requirements.

Personalized Care for a Confident Start

At Complete Healthcare, patients don’t have to make these decisions alone. The clinic’s experienced team works with each individual to assess their health history, addiction severity, and personal circumstances. Whether methadone or Suboxone is the better fit, Dr. Milroy J. Samuel and his staff ensure a safe, supportive, and timely start to recovery.

If you’re ready to break free from opioid dependence, schedule a consultation at Complete Healthcare’s Marysville location. Your recovery can begin as soon as today, with the proper treatment and a team that truly cares.