Buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) is a controlled substance because it contains opioids, and it requires a prescription from a doctor. If you run out of your prescription, it can be hard to get emergency Suboxone (legally) in a prompt manner. Therefore it is really important to maintain a relationship with your provider who is regularly prescribing a supply of Suboxone and make sure you attend your appointment for refills. If you see that you are going to run out, call your doctor as soon as possible. If you find yourself in an emergency situation without Suboxone and are worried about using other narcotics, go to the emergency room immediately. Depending on your State’s laws and the emergency room’s policy, some emergency rooms will dispense short supplies (1-3 days worth, called a “bridge” prescription) of Suboxone until a patient can confirm an appointment with their provider.
Elena Hill, MD; MPH received her MD and Masters of Public Health degrees at Tufts Medical School and completed her family medicine residency at Boston Medical Center. She is currently an attending physician at Bronxcare Health Systems in the Bronx, NY where she works as a primary care physician as well as part time in pain management and integrated health. Her clinical interests include underserved health care, chronic pain and integrated/alternative health.
