Suboxone is a medication used in the treatment of opioid dependence and addiction. It contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which means it activates the same opioid receptors in the brain as other opioids but to a lesser extent, thereby reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same intense euphoria or high. Naloxone is added to Suboxone to discourage misuse; if Suboxone is injected, naloxone can precipitate withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals.

Suboxone is often prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment program for opioid addiction, which may also include counseling, therapy, and other support services. It's typically initiated during the detoxification phase and can be continued for maintenance therapy to help prevent relapse.