How will Suboxone help in case of cervical fusion?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am having cervical fusion 3 levels 5/17. I am on 8 mg of Suboxone daily. I told the surgeon that I did not want opioids. Can I stay on 8 mg up to the surgery morning? I do not want to stop and have withdrawals or take any opioids before or after the procedure. Please guide.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Suboxone (Buprenorphine) is given to treat opioid dependence. Prozac is an antidepressant. I think because of your disease process, cervical radiculopathy (pinched or irritated nerve in the neck causing pain, numbness, or weakness radiating into the chest or arm), you have been taking some painkillers, mostly opioids, for a long time.

Your doctor might have prescribed Suboxone to take you off opioid dependence. Suboxone can cause a certain amount of drowsiness and has the potential to interact with many drugs to cause side effects, some of which may be significant. The decision on continuing Suboxone (Buprenorphine and Naloxone) and Prozac (Fluoxetine) until the day of surgery should be taken in discussion with your surgeon and anesthesiologist. It also depends on what anesthesia they are going to use during surgery.

It also depends on your respiratory system, and how well it is functioning. Your fear is that if put on opioids again post-surgery, you may get addicted again. Be assured that as long as you are under medical supervision and adhere to instructions, addiction potential will be less. As far as my knowledge, they will definitely consider stopping Suboxone before surgery. If this is continued, further analgesics prescribed post-surgery may not work.

Do not be scared. Discuss with your surgeon and anesthesiologist and they will suggest what is best for your health.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.