I was wondering about the patients who currently take Suboxone. I practice in an area where drug abuse is epidemic. I know methadone users are disqualified but was also wondering about Suboxone. I am uncomfortable with the thought of any of these substances being taken by drivers….but also don’t want to be prejudicial. I can’t find any information on this particular substance.
FMCSA does not specifically address Suboxone (buprenorphine). It is used for chronic opioid addiction, similar to Methadone. At the time FMCSA determined that Methadone is disqualifying, it was the only drug used to treat chronic opioid addiction. Within this context, Suboxone would generally be considered similar to Methadone as a treatment for chronic opioid addiction, which is disqualifying according to FMCSA.