help trying to detox from methadone clinic

[hondo267]

taking methadone 30mg how long do i need to wait before suboxone

[hellc@mst]

I waited 4 days before transitioning from methadone to suboxone.  I didnt want to risk precipitated withdrawals (which are virtually irreversible) so I waited longer than I needed to. I switched without any major trauma and began detoxing off the suboxone the following day.

Most doctors use a COWS test to determine when a person is ready to switch. This is just a questionaire where you give a rating (from 0-5) about the severity of various withdrawal symptoms ie sneezing, yawning, diarhea, restless limbs etc.... These numbers  are  tabulated and when your agregate score is within the recommended limits,  it is then possible to safely dose.The problem with the COWS test is that its subjective. Some people have a low tolerance for withdrawals and may mistakenly believe they are in severe withdrawals when they're not.  Their resulting high COWS score could mean that the suboxone is administered prematurely causing prcipitated withdrawals.  My advice is to wait as long as you possibly can or at least 3 days.

All the best. Regards Jeremy (Recovered Addict)
4 years 1 month drug free thanks to ME.

[funcaddict]

I waited 5 days & had an easy transition to suboxone. I did, however, drop to 20 mg methadone per day for 2 weeks prior to my induction then I went without methadone for 5 days. Dr prescribed meds to help ease wds & I actually had a pretty easy time. I took 4 days off from work.