In 2002, Suboxone was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD).[1] For 20 years, Suboxone has helped people deal with cravings, relapse triggers, and withdrawal symptoms.
But Suboxone's history is a little more complicated (and interesting) on a deep dive. Here is a timeline of its history:
Two active ingredients are included in Suboxone, and both were developed decades ago.
In the 1970s, researchers looked for painkilling solutions with a higher safety profile. Chemists created buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, with teh goal of creating a safer alternative for pain control. [2]
In 1981, the FDA approved buprenorphine as a painkiller.[3]
In 1971, the FDA approved naloxone for treating opioid overdoses.[4] The heroin crisis was just beginning, and researchers felt confident that this medication would help to save lives.[4]
In 2002, a medication containing buprenorphine (Subutex) was approved for OUD treatment. At the same time, a medication combining buprenorphine and naloxone (Suboxone) was approved.[1]
In 2018, the FDA approved generic versions of Suboxone strips, making the medication much less expensive, and much more available to people needing medication for addiction treatment. [5]
.webp)
Our science-backed approach boasts 95% of patients reporting no withdrawal symptoms at 7 days. We can help you achieve easier days and a happier future.
Get Startedor book an enrollment call
