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Withdrawal During Pregnancy is Dangerous

answered 06:52 PM EST, Thu February 20, 2014
My wife started getting prescribed 16mg of sobetex the doctors told her that she woukd probably need to increase her dose, now he won't write her another perscriptuo, because someone told him she was selling her medication.
While, she is 35 months pregnant how harmful is quitting cold turkey for my unborn child.

Anna Deeds Says...

Anna Deeds A. Deeds
MSED, NCC, LPC

Thank you for your question. Withdrawal symptoms are extremely dangerous to an unborn fetus. Your wife needs to continue taking Subutex at least until she gives birth. She would be at higher risk of having a miscarriage if she suddenly stops taking Subutex while pregnant. I suggest you talk to her doctor who was prescribing the Subutex and remind him that it is dangerous for her to suddenly stop taking the medication while pregnant. If he will not prescribe it, then you must take her to another doctor. Be sure she lets her OB/GYN know that she is on this medication. Her OB/GYN may be able to help you find another doctor or consult with her doctor to be sure she continues the medication. If you need to find a doctor, there a treatment locator on the SAMHSA website. Some additional information about pregnancy and Subutex: She cannot breast feed while on Subutex because it will pass into the milk. The baby may go through withdrawal but it is still safer for the baby than if she goes through withdrawal while pregnant. Even if the baby does have some withdrawal symptoms, it does not mean your baby won't be healthy. While it isn't ideal to get pregnant on Subutex, you can still have a healthy baby that meets normal developmental milestones. Here are some other links to information on pregnancy and Subutex:

Suboxone Talk Zone

Food and Drug Administration

NIDA

SAMHSA TIP 43

I hope your wife gets the treatment she needs. Congrats and good luck with the baby!

 

 
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Page last updated Feb 20, 2014

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