Suboxone Doctors Near Me
- Harold Pierre, MD
- Aug 3, 2023
- 11 min read
Updated: Feb 17
Need quick appointment details? Visit my Tulsa page: Suboxone Doctor Tulsa.
If you've been searching for "Suboxone doctors near me" or "Suboxone clinic in Tulsa," you have already taken an important first step toward treatment. Asking for help takes real courage, and you deserve care that is respectful, private, and evidence-based.
When you visit me at my clinic near 91st and Yale Ave in Tulsa, Oklahoma, my job is to listen, answer your questions clearly, and help you start a treatment plan that works for your life. Call or text 918-518-1636.
The Opioid Crisis in Tulsa, Oklahoma
The opioid crisis in Tulsa and the surrounding communities of Broken Arrow, Owasso, Jenks, Bixby, and Sand Springs have not gone away. In 2023, Tulsa County recorded 298 fatal overdoses, a 148% increase since 2019, according to the Healthy Minds Policy Initiative. Across Oklahoma, fentanyl was responsible for 90% of all opioid-related overdose deaths that year, claiming 748 lives statewide, according to the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics.
There is a glimmer of hope. Preliminary data from the Oklahoma State Department of Health shows a 34% decrease in fentanyl overdose deaths across Oklahoma from 2023 to 2024, dropping from 730 to 487 deaths. This decline is partly due to initiatives like Tulsa's "Zero Overdose" program. It also reflects expanded naloxone distribution and increased access to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) through providers like my clinic at 91st and Yale. However, experts at KOSU and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics have called this progress "fragile" due to new synthetic opioids entering the market.
Oklahoma is now in what the Healthy Minds Policy Initiative calls the "fourth wave" of the opioid epidemic. According to The Frontier, approximately 70% of fentanyl overdose deaths in Oklahoma also involve methamphetamine or another drug. In Tulsa County alone, methamphetamine-involved overdose death rates have increased more than 500% since 2012, according to the Healthy Minds Policy Initiative. On top of that, deadly adulterants are now being mixed into the fentanyl supply. The Tulsa Police Department's forensic lab has confirmed xylazine (a veterinary tranquilizer commonly called "tranq") in local fentanyl samples. Even more alarming, in March 2025, the Tulsa PD forensic lab detected medetomidine in fentanyl for the first time, as reported in their May 2025 public safety announcement.
As an anesthesiologist, I use dexmedetomidine (Precedex) regularly in the operating room and ICU for sedation. Dexmedetomidine is the purified, active form of the drug. What's showing up in Tulsa's fentanyl supply is medetomidine, the racemic veterinary formulation (sold as Domitor). It is a potent alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, significantly stronger than xylazine. Neither xylazine nor medetomidine responds to Narcan, which makes these combinations extremely dangerous. When someone overdoses on fentanyl laced with medetomidine, Narcan may reverse the opioid effects but will do nothing for the profound sedation, dangerously slow heart rate, and low blood pressure caused by medetomidine. This is one of the many reasons why professional addiction treatment matters. The drugs on the street today are not what they were even two years ago.
There is also an emerging threat that most people are not talking about yet. As an addiction specialist in the Tulsa area, I am seeing a growing number of new patients addicted to 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and MGM-15, both of which are made from the kratom plant. 7-OH is a potent opioid agonist that is far stronger than the raw kratom leaf, and MGM-15 is a synthetic derivative of 7-OH with even higher opioid receptor binding affinity, as documented in a 2025 study published by the National Institutes of Health. These products are sold legally in smoke shops and gas stations across Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Owasso, and beyond. Many people start taking them thinking they are safe because they come from a "natural" plant. They are not safe. They cause real opioid dependence, real withdrawal, and real addiction. Oklahoma's legislature updated the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (House Bill 3574, effective November 1, 2024), lowering the allowable 7-OH concentration from 2% to 1% and banning synthetic alkaloids entirely. But enforcement is slow, and these products remain widely available. I expect kratom-derived opioid addictions to continue rising in the Tulsa area, and I would not be surprised if they eventually surpass fentanyl as the primary source of new opioid-addicted patients walking through my door.
If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction in Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Owasso, Jenks, Bixby, or anywhere in the greater Tulsa metro, whether from fentanyl, prescription painkillers, heroin, kratom, 7-OH, or MGM-15, please don't wait. Call my clinic at 918-518-1636. We offer Suboxone treatment, Sublocade injections, hormone replacement, and a comprehensive approach to recovery that addresses the full picture, not just the withdrawal.
Understanding the Cause of Opioid Addiction
Opioid addiction often begins innocently enough. Your brain naturally produces hormones called endorphins. Endorphins regulate sleep, pleasure response, and pain relief. However, when you take external opioids (hydrocodone, morphine, heroin, fentanyl, kratom), they bind with the brain's opioid receptors in a more intense way than your natural endorphins. This can lead to euphoria, a rush, a feeling of energy, and a calmness in addition to pain relief. Before you know it, these sensations quickly lead to dependency on these drugs for the feelings of pleasure and relief they provide.
The danger lies in the fact that these potent drugs can flood the brain's pleasure center with dopamine, and activate its reward system. Over time, you start to seek these pleasurable sensations. Eventually, the brain's chemistry changes, and you lose interest in seeking pleasure from other sources. Continued substance use leads to dysfunctional behavior. The dependency sets in and you may not even realize it until you try to stop using the drugs.
When you stop using opioids, debilitating withdrawal sets in with painful muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, anxiety and more. Some people describe the feeling as the closest thing to death without dying. The fear of withdrawal drives you to start using drugs again to self-medicate and stop the pain. Even worse, tolerance also builds. Tolerance requires more drugs to get the same high and more drugs to get the same relief from the withdrawal. This raises the risk of overdose. Eventually, what started for pain relief or for fun, becomes an imprisonment.
The Challenge of Overcoming Opioid Addiction
Overcoming opioid addiction is very difficult, particularly when you attempt to do this alone. This is what your friends and family don't understand. Even if you manage to physically withdraw from the drugs, the psychological aspect of drug use and the powerful attachment that comes with addiction remains. Plus, you may be stuck with Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) for another 2 years where you just don't feel right.
How Suboxone Helps You Beat Addiction
This is where Suboxone comes in. Suboxone is a brand name for a combination of Buprenorphine and Naloxone. Buprenorphine, the active ingredient, is a semisynthetic partial opioid agonist prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain and opioid addiction. It binds to the receptors of your brain to stop the withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and drug seeking behavior. Suboxone does so without causing the high associated with other drugs like heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, etc. It is a widely used treatment for opioid withdrawal. It is also part of a comprehensive treatment program for opioid-dependent patients. It acts as a substitute for other drugs with fewer risks of addiction.
Suboxone reduces cravings, helps normalize brain function and enables you to engage fully in counseling. You can start handling your daily responsibilities without the euphoric effects or highs.
Suboxone vs. Methadone
Treatment of opioid dependence has 2 very effective means. Both Suboxone and methadone work by binding to opioid receptors throughout the brain and spinal cord. This binding reduces withdrawal symptoms. However, Suboxone has several advantages over methadone. Suboxone has a "ceiling effect," which means as the dose of Suboxone increases, the drug's effects on the respiratory system start to level off. This reduces the potential for overdose. This makes Suboxone a safer alternative for treating addiction and even chronic pain. Suboxone can be prescribed through a local doctor's office. Thus, daily visits to the methadone clinic can often be avoided. Since a doctor can prescribe Suboxone, it is dispensed at your local pharmacy, and you can take your Suboxone in the privacy of your home. Lastly, most insurance plans cover Suboxone prescriptions.
Feature | Suboxone | Methadone |
Drug type | Partial opioid agonist | Full opioid agonist |
Active ingredients | Buprenorphine + Naloxone | Methadone |
Overdose risk | Lower (ceiling effect) | Higher |
Where prescribed | Doctor's office or telehealth | Certified methadone clinic only |
Daily clinic visits required | No | Yes (initially) |
Take-home use | Yes, from day one | Only after earning privileges |
Pharmacy dispensed | Yes | No |
Insurance coverage | Most plans, Medicaid, Medicare | Most plans, Medicaid, Medicare |
Privacy | High (home use, private office) | Lower (daily clinic visits) |
Common in Tulsa | Yes, multiple providers | Limited to certified clinics |
What Are Common Side Effects of Suboxone?
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Insomnia
Mouth numbness or redness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
What Are Common Side Effects of Methadone?
Constipation
Drowsiness or sedation
Dry mouth
Nausea and vomiting
Headache
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Decreased libido or sexual dysfunction
How Suboxone Outcompetes Other Opioids
Buprenorphine, the active ingredient of Suboxone, is considered more potent than other opioids such as morphine and heroin. It also has a higher affinity for opioid receptors in the brain, which means it binds to those receptors more strongly than drugs like heroin. So, when Suboxone is taken at very high doses, other drugs, such as heroin, have a much harder time causing a high. Additionally, buprenorphine is longer-acting than other opioids, with a half-life of 24-48 hours. This means that your withdrawals are relieved for a much longer period than other drugs.
Forms of Buprenorphine
While Suboxone is the most commonly known name brand, buprenorphine comes in many different forms. It is available as tablets (Subutex), films (Suboxone, Belbuca), injectable solutions, implants, and skin patches (Butrans). Each formulation has its own unique set of advantages and potential drawbacks, allowing treatment to be tailored to your needs. Of course, health insurance coverage has a great influence on which form will be covered.
At my Tulsa Suboxone clinic, I prescribe Sublocade, a once-monthly buprenorphine injection, for patients who want to eliminate the need for daily medication. Sublocade provides steady, consistent levels of buprenorphine and is an excellent option for patients who are stable on Suboxone and ready to simplify their treatment.
How Counseling Plays a Role
Suboxone relieves withdrawal and reduces cravings in the short term. But it is counseling that is critical to address the psychological aspects of addiction.
Individual counseling helps you process emotions, trauma and challenges behind your opioid use.
Support groups provide ongoing peer support from others in recovery.
By combining medication with regular counseling, you get comprehensive support to maintain sobriety and avoid relapse.
Care at My Suboxone Clinic
I am an anesthesiologist first and an addiction medicine specialist second. However, I have extensive experience with treating addiction. My experience with buprenorphine dates back to 1999 when I began treating hundreds of heroin addicts in Baltimore. A year later, I began my training in anesthesiology and helping hundreds of heroin addicts through surgery. I've been a hospice doctor and a methadone clinic doctor. Little did I know how important those early experiences would be in becoming a Suboxone Doctor in Tulsa.
I understand that Suboxone is just one component of a successful outpatient treatment program. I've learned over the years that there are 5 very important components to successfully recover from opioid use disorder:
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) using a buprenorphine based medication like Suboxone. The dose has to be right to eliminate the withdrawals and cravings.
Counseling that may include group or one on one counseling. Counseling addresses the psychological aspects of addiction.
Nutritional supplementation to correct the common deficiencies that are found in opioid addicts.
Hormone replacement therapy to fix the hormone imbalances that opioids cause. You won't feel right if your testosterone, estrogen, cortisol and thyroid hormones are not balanced.
The mutual trust and respect you have with your MAT provider.
When you searched "Suboxone Clinic Near Me" or "Suboxone Doctor Near Me" and found me, you found an experienced Suboxone clinic in the Tulsa area. I lead a team with decades of experience. We are committed to providing comfort, care, and respect as you move through this challenging time in your life. We also made treatment convenient with hours of operation from 0800 AM to 0900 PM. Please call us at 918-518-1636.
Suboxone Treatment Serving Tulsa and Surrounding Communities
My Suboxone clinic at 8931 S Yale Ave, Suite Q, is centrally located to serve patients across the greater Tulsa metropolitan area. Whether you're searching for a Suboxone doctor in Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Owasso, Jenks, Bixby, Sand Springs, Sapulpa, Claremore, or Catoosa, my clinic is a short drive away. I also offer telehealth appointments for patients throughout Oklahoma who prefer the convenience of virtual visits.
I understand that seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming, and privacy matters. My clinic is located in a discreet medical office, not a busy hospital or crowded treatment center. You won't be sitting in a waiting room full of people. That was intentional. I believe your recovery should begin in a place where you feel safe, respected, and comfortable.
Areas we serve include:
Tulsa (Midtown, South Tulsa, East Tulsa, West Tulsa, North Tulsa)
Broken Arrow
Owasso
Jenks
Bixby
Sand Springs
Sapulpa
Claremore
Catoosa
Glenpool
Coweta
If you're in any of these communities and searching for "Suboxone doctors near me" or "opioid addiction treatment near me," I'd be honored to help. Call or text 918-518-1636 to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Suboxone Treatment in Tulsa
How much does Suboxone treatment cost in Tulsa? Most patients with insurance pay little to nothing out of pocket for Suboxone treatment in Tulsa. Major insurance plans, including Medicaid (SoonerCare) and Medicare, typically cover both Suboxone prescriptions and office visits. I work at 2 clinics. One for insured patients and 1 low cost clinic for uninsured patients.
Do I need a referral to see a Suboxone doctor in Tulsa? Some insurance companies do require a prior authorization to see me. However, if you are uninsured or do not want to use your private insurance, we can see you as soon as today. You can call my clinic directly at 918-518-1636 to schedule your first appointment. In many cases, we can get you started the same week.
Can I get Suboxone prescribed through telehealth in Oklahoma? Yes, Suboxone can be prescribed through telehealth in Oklahoma. I am licensed in Oklahoma and offer telehealth appointments for Suboxone treatment. This is a convenient option for patients in Broken Arrow, Owasso, Jenks, Bixby, and other communities who may have transportation barriers or prefer the privacy of a virtual visit. I have a lot of welders who work throughout Oklahoma. So, my telehealth service and hours makes treatment very convenient.
How long does Suboxone treatment last? Suboxone treatment typically lasts anywhere from several months to a year or more, depending on the individual. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The goal is to stabilize your brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and give you the time and support you need to build a lasting recovery. We will work together to create a treatment plan that's right for you.
What is the difference between Suboxone and Sublocade? Suboxone is a daily sublingual film or tablet, while Sublocade is a once-monthly buprenorphine injection that eliminates daily dosing. Suboxone contains both buprenorphine and naloxone. Sublocade contains only buprenorphine, delivered as a slow-release injection under the skin. Both are effective treatments for opioid use disorder. Sublocade is also a great way to taper off buprenorphine for good. At my clinic, I prescribe both options and will help determine which is best for your situation.
Can Suboxone help with kratom or 7-OH addiction? Yes. 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and MGM-15 are opioid agonists, and they cause the same type of dependence and withdrawal as other opioids. Suboxone works by binding to the same opioid receptors, relieving withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings. If you have become dependent on kratom, 7-OH concentrates, or MGM-15, Suboxone treatment can absolutely help. I am treating a growing number of patients in the Tulsa area with this exact problem.
Is Suboxone treatment confidential? Yes, Suboxone treatment is fully confidential and protected by federal law. Specifically, 42 CFR Part 2 provides special confidentiality protections for substance use disorder treatment records that go beyond standard HIPAA protections. Your treatment information cannot be shared without your written consent. My clinic's discreet location on S Yale Ave in South Tulsa ensures your privacy from the moment you walk in.
About the author:
Harold Pierre, MD, is a board-certified addiction medicine specialist and anesthesiologist in Tulsa, Oklahoma who has treated opioid addiction since 1999. He is board-certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and the American Board of Preventive Medicine, with over 26 years of experience managing hormones, pain, addiction, and their intersection. He provides Suboxone and Sublocade treatment at his private clinic at 8931 S Yale Ave, serving patients across the greater Tulsa metro area including Broken Arrow, Owasso, Jenks, and Bixby. He is licensed in Florida, Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arizona. If you are seeking care, you may schedule an appointment with him by calling or texting 918-518-1636. LinkedIn
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition before making any changes. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
If you prefer a shorter page focused on booking care, visit: Suboxone Doctor Tulsa.
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