Opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings can be very difficult to manage without medication. If you’re taking a daily medication like Suboxone, refilling your prescription is an important part of your self-care routine. However, mistakes happen. If you might miss or have missed a dose, there are ways to get emergency access. The first thing you should do is try to contact your prescriber. If you aren’t able to reach them, you can search for an urgent care clinic, an emergency room, or another provider.

Health care providers understand the impact of missing a dose, and they want to help. In this article, we’ll share five ways you can get emergency access to Suboxone virtually anywhere.

The fastest ways to get emergency Suboxone near you

Feeling anxious or experiencing withdrawal symptoms can make it hard to plan out your next steps. Use any coping skills you’ve worked on in treatment to help you stay calm and think more clearly. Mindfulness exercises or deep breathing can help you stay grounded and focused.

Keep in mind that this feeling is temporary, and you’re not out of luck. Whether you’re on a trip or you miss a refill for any reason, you have options. There are multiple pathways available to prevent cravings and withdrawal.

Try the following ways to get an emergency supply of Suboxone:

• Call your current provider and pharmacy first

Even if your provider isn’t in or if it’s after hours, your clinic may be able to get you a temporary prescription or an emergency refill. Most have emergency protocols for existing patients.

For instance, they may have staff on call, or they may be able to refer you to another provider. In some states, your pharmacist may also be able to get you an emergency 3-day supply. If your pharmacy is out of stock, see if they can forward your prescription to another location. If you use a chain pharmacy, there may be a 24-hour location near you.

• Urgent care centers for same-day access

Many urgent care facilities now prescribe buprenorphine. You may be able to call ahead and make a same-day appointment. Urgent care centers usually have shorter wait times than emergency rooms. Call ahead to confirm they treat opioid use disorder. If you go, bring identification and any existing prescription information.

• Emergency room when you need immediate help

If you’re already experiencing withdrawal or cravings, you can head to a hospital emergency department. Let them know you're taking medication for opioid use disorder to prevent withdrawal and that you missed a dose. Bring your medication bottle or prescription information if possible.

• Crisis hotlines for immediate guidance

The SAMHSA National Helpline is a free 24-hour service that provides immediate crisis counseling. They can also help you find nearby emergency treatment options. Call 1-800-662-4357.

• Finding a new provider quickly

If you need to find a new provider, you may be able to find one that offers same-day or walk-in appointments. See if there’s a Groups location near you and call our Recovery Support Specialists to find out when you can book an appointment. We offer telehealth options to make the process faster.

Planning your next steps for emergency Suboxone access

Being in recovery doesn’t have to mean staying close to your home clinic or pharmacy all the time. If you know you won’t be able to pick up your prescription in advance, you can arrange a temporary supply with your prescriber.

You may need to schedule a telehealth appointment to check in while you’re away, though your provider needs to be licensed in the state you are in. It's a good idea to save your prescriber's information in your phone and take a photo of your prescription bottle or medication label. Having this information readily available can speed up the process when contacting emergency providers or pharmacies.

Your insurance may also be able to override prescription limits if you have travel plans. If not, you can check GoodRx or search for manufacturer coupons. If there’s a generic version available, that can make your prescription more affordable.

Many clinics offer sliding scale emergency rates, too. If you’re concerned about the cost of Suboxone, a Recovery Support Specialist at Groups can help you find out if you qualify for any kind of financial assistance.

Before you call, gather any information you may need. This might include your current dosage as well as your prescribing doctor's name and contact information. They may ask how long you’ve been in treatment and when you took your last dose.

They may have other questions about your medical history, such as allergies or other medications you’re taking.

You’ll also need your insurance information. Even if you’re missing some of this information, it’s still worth reaching out to try to get an emergency dose.

Here are some questions you might ask when calling a potential provider or emergency facility:

• Do you have same-day appointments for medication-assisted treatment?
• Can you prescribe buprenorphine for someone currently in treatment?
• What information do I need to bring for an emergency visit?
• Do you accept walk-ins for opioid treatment emergencies?
• How quickly can we start treatment?
• What ongoing support do you provide?
• How do I transition back to my regular provider?
• What should I do if this happens again?

Get help with a Suboxone prescription at Groups

Care providers understand that medication emergencies happen and are ready to help. At Groups, a Suboxone prescription is just one part of your comprehensive recovery plan. We’ll also help you prepare for all kinds of situations, including medication emergencies. You’ll also work on coping skills to help you manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

The main components of treatment at Groups are Suboxone and support. You’ll work with a qualified prescriber and a Recovery Support Specialist who can help you with different life goals. You’ll also attend weekly peer support groups to help you stay connected with a recovery-focused community.

Are you looking for a supportive team to help you navigate your recovery? Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today.

We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.