In recent years, Suboxone has gained significant attention as a medication for opioid addiction treatment. However, amidst its widespread use, concerns have emerged regarding potential adverse effects, with dental problems being a notable issue. The pharmaceutical company Indivior, the maker of Suboxone, is now facing a barrage of lawsuits for the same reason.
These legal actions shed light on a critical aspect of Suboxone use and raise questions about its safety and long-term effects. Let’s understand these new lawsuits against the company and how they impact Suboxone users.
Understanding Suboxone and Its Uses
Suboxone is primarily prescribed to treat opioid dependence. According to Drugs.com, it comes in a 4:1 ratio of buprenorphine and naloxone and is available in four different variants. The available dosages are 2, 4, 8, and 12mg buprenorphine, which are prescribed based on the severity of opioid use disorder (OUD). It can be administered in two ways: sublingual (under the tongue) and buccal (inside the cheek).
It works by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, allowing individuals to overcome addiction and regain control over their lives. The medication’s effectiveness in managing opioid addiction has made it a cornerstone of many treatment programs, offering hope to countless individuals. An NCBI study states that although it is very reliable, other medications for OUD, like methadone, can show greater craving control.
Dental Problems Associated with Suboxone
While Suboxone has shown promise in addressing opioid addiction, reports of adverse effects, particularly dental problems, have surfaced.
According to TruLaw, patients taking Suboxone have reported experiencing issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health complications. The Suboxone sublingual films are highly acidic and can impact the mouth’s pH, leading to dental issues.
Several studies have associated the ingredients of Suboxone with oral health problems. Therefore, even the FDA has warned consumers to take proactive measures for their dental health when using Suboxone.
However, many people have already been facing the issues and have taken legal courses to hold Indivior accountable for them. They have filed a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit and seek compensation for their troubles. They allege that the manufacturer failed to warn them about the potential health effects of its product. Therefore, they consider the manufacturer, Indivior, negligent and want it to pay for its fault.
The Link Between Suboxone and Dental Health
The precise mechanism underlying the association between Suboxone and dental problems remains debated. One possibility is the medication’s side effects, such as dry mouth. It can create an environment with high acidic levels that is conducive to dental issues.
Moreover, individuals undergoing OUD treatment may already have compromised oral health due to neglect or substance use-related behaviors. This makes them more susceptible to problems exacerbated by Suboxone use, increasing the incidence rate.
A JAMA Network study tried to find the incidence rate of adverse events when taking Suboxone. It monitored 21,404 new users of the drug and tracked down the number of such problems. The study found that the incidence rate was 21.6 per 1000 person-years. This was higher compared to the rate of 12.2 in patients using transdermal buprenorphine.
Number of New Lawsuits Expected
Numerous lawsuits have been filed against Indivior in response to the mounting reports of dental problems linked to Suboxone. However, these are in the initial stages, as only 205 cases are pending in the Suboxone tooth decay multidistrict litigation. As the litigation process moves forward, new cases are expected to be filed against Indivior.
According to AboutLawsuits.com, thousands of new cases can be filed by June 2024. This is because the warning labels were added late, and many individuals had already taken the medication for OUD treatment. The drug was approved in 2002 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the warning signs were added recently in 2022.
The Role of Healthcare Providers
Amidst the legal proceedings and conflicting claims, healthcare providers play a crucial role in addressing the concerns surrounding Suboxone and dental health. It is incumbent upon them to inform patients about the potential risks and benefits of Suboxone therapy. Dentists, in particular, should monitor the oral health of individuals undergoing Suboxone treatment and provide appropriate guidance and interventions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Suboxone directly responsible for dental problems, or are other factors involved?
Suboxone is not directly responsible for dental problems; it impacts oral health indirectly due to its acidic ingredients. While Suboxone may lead to dental problems, other variables can also play a role. Poor oral hygiene, such as occasional brushing, flossing, and a high-sugar diet, might worsen tooth issues. Furthermore, pre-existing dental diseases or genetic predispositions may increase the likelihood of developing tooth problems using Suboxone.
Should patients stop taking Suboxone if they experience dental problems?
When individuals experience oral difficulties while taking Suboxone, they should visit their healthcare professional before quitting the prescription. Abruptly discontinuing Suboxone might cause withdrawal symptoms and potentially interrupt progress in addiction treatment.
Instead, healthcare experts can assess the severity of oral problems and work with dental practitioners to devise an appropriate treatment strategy. In rare circumstances, dose changes or alternate drugs may be considered to reduce dental risks while still providing effective addiction therapy.
Are there alternative medications for opioid addiction treatment without similar dental risks?
Fortunately, other drugs for opioid addiction therapy may be less harmful to tooth health. Methadone, for example, is another medicine often used to treat opiate addiction that may not have the same dental adverse effects as Suboxone. However, pharmaceutical selection should be based on the individual patient’s needs, including their medical history, treatment objectives, and probable adverse effects.
How can patients minimize the risk of dental problems while taking Suboxone?
Patients can take various precautions to reduce their chance of developing oral issues while using Suboxone. Maintaining a rigorous oral hygiene program can help decrease the development of plaque and germs that cause dental problems.
To conclude, the emergence of lawsuits alleging a connection between Suboxone and dental problems highlights the complexities inherent in medication use. It underscores the need for comprehensive risk assessment and management.
While Suboxone has proven beneficial in addressing opioid addiction, concerns about its potential adverse effects warrant further investigation. By fostering transparency, communication, and collaboration, stakeholders can work together to promote safer and more effective treatment options for individuals battling addiction.
