Methadone or buprenorphine? Questions to ask your clinician

Two medication options

Methadone is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder. Under professional supervision, it can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Buprenorphine is another medication for opioid use disorder; Suboxone is a brand that combines buprenorphine and naloxone. It works differently from methadone.

Questions to ask

• Which option might suit my health history and other medications?
• What does a typical visit schedule look like for each?
• What side effects or interactions should I know about?
• What happens if I want to change my plan later?
• Which counseling and support services are available alongside medication?

Talk with your clinic

Call or walk in today. Your care team will explain the medication and counseling options available at that location.

A note on safety

Use medication only as directed by qualified clinicians. Don’t change a prescribed plan based on website information. This article is educational and is not medical advice.

Next steps

• Methadone & Suboxone →
• Find a clinic →