Is Suboxone safe during pregnancy?

Yes. Research and national guidelines from ACOG, CDC, and SAMHSA show Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is safe and effective for treating opioid use disorder during pregnancy when medically supervised.

What happens if I stop Suboxone while pregnant?

Stopping suddenly can cause opioid withdrawal, which may lead to miscarriage, preterm labor, or relapse. Always talk to your doctor before making any medication changes.

What is Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS)?

NOWS is a temporary condition in which babies experience mild withdrawal after birth. Symptoms usually appear within a few days and resolve in 1–2 weeks with medical support.

What's the difference between NAS and NOWS?

Both describe newborn withdrawal, but NOWS is specific to opioid exposure, while NAS may refer to withdrawal from other substances as well.

Can I breastfeed while taking Suboxone?

Usually yes. Only tiny amounts of buprenorphine pass into breast milk, and breastfeeding can actually help reduce NOWS severity.

What are the side effects of Suboxone during pregnancy?

Most patients tolerate Suboxone well. Possible side effects include mild nausea, headache, or constipation, which usually improve over time.

Can I deliver vaginally while on Suboxone?

Yes. Suboxone does not interfere with your ability to deliver vaginally or with pain management during labor. Always inform your care team about your medication.

How long does NOWS last?

Most babies recover within one to two weeks, though some require brief observation or supportive care in the hospital.

What if I relapse during pregnancy?

You're not alone. Relapse can happen. CleanSlate offers immediate support, medication adjustments, and therapy to help you regain stability safely.

Is Subutex safer than Suboxone during pregnancy?

Both are safe. Some providers may prescribe Subutex (buprenorphine without naloxone) during pregnancy, though Suboxone is increasingly supported by research as safe and effective.

Can Suboxone be started late in pregnancy?

Yes. It's never too late to start treatment. Even beginning MAT in the third trimester can improve outcomes and reduce NOWS.

Can Suboxone affect labor pain management?

It can slightly reduce the effectiveness of some pain medications, so your medical team may adjust your labor plan accordingly. Always inform your doctors about your treatment.

How does CleanSlate coordinate with my OB-GYN?

CleanSlate works closely with your prenatal care provider to ensure safe dosing, fetal monitoring, and delivery planning. Collaboration is central to our care model.

Can I take Suboxone while breastfeeding?

Yes. It's considered compatible with breastfeeding, and most infants show no adverse effects.

Why choose CleanSlate for OUD treatment during pregnancy?

Because you deserve compassionate, evidence-based care. CleanSlate offers outpatient Suboxone treatment, behavioral therapy, prenatal coordination, and long-term support to keep you and your baby safe—before, during, and after birth.

What is the best treatment for opioid use disorder in pregnancy?

The safest and most effective treatment is medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with Suboxone or buprenorphine-only medication, combined with behavioral therapy and prenatal care.

Can you switch from methadone to Suboxone during pregnancy?

Yes, but only under close medical supervision. Transitioning improperly can cause withdrawal for both mother and baby.

Can Suboxone help prevent NOWS?

Yes. Studies show babies born to mothers on Suboxone have milder and shorter NOWS symptoms than those exposed to methadone or illicit opioids.

Does Suboxone cause birth defects?

No. Studies show no increased risk of birth defects in babies exposed to Suboxone during pregnancy compared to the general population.

Can Suboxone cause miscarriage?

No. In fact, staying on treatment helps prevent miscarriage by stabilizing maternal health and avoiding dangerous withdrawal.

What happens to babies after birth if the mother takes Suboxone?

Babies may be monitored for NOWS symptoms such as fussiness, tremors, or difficulty feeding—but these are temporary and resolve with care.

Will my baby go through withdrawal if I take Suboxone?

Possibly, but symptoms are generally mild and short-lived. Medical teams are experienced in managing this safely.

Does Suboxone affect breastfeeding or milk supply?

No. Suboxone does not reduce milk production, and breastfeeding is often encouraged.

Can I take other medications with Suboxone while pregnant?

Always consult your provider. Certain medications, like benzodiazepines or sleep aids, can be dangerous when combined with opioids.

What should I avoid while on Suboxone during pregnancy?

Avoid alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and tobacco. These substances increase the risk of complications for you and your baby.

How long should I stay on Suboxone after giving birth?

There's no fixed timeline. Many women continue treatment for months or years. Staying on Suboxone postpartum helps prevent relapse during this high-risk period.

What are the signs of opioid withdrawal in pregnancy?

Symptoms include cramping, sweating, anxiety, insomnia, and nausea. Withdrawal should never be managed alone—seek medical help immediately.

What's the first step to start treatment at CleanSlate?

Call (833) 505-4673 or schedule an appointment online. You'll meet with a provider for an evaluation and a same-day start to treatment in most cases.

Dr. Ismael Abu Limon, MD

Center Medical Director – CleanSlate Centers, Wisconsin

Addiction Medicine Specialist | Internal Medicine Physician

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About Dr. Ismael Abu Limon

Dr. Ismael Abu Limon is an Internal Medicine physician and Addiction Medicine specialist who brings a rare blend of clinical leadership, academic experience, and public health expertise to CleanSlate Centers across Wisconsin. He completed his Addiction Medicine fellowship at Case Western Reserve University/MetroHealth in Ohio and has practiced in diverse care settings, including correctional healthcare, hospital medicine, and primary care.

As Clinical Medical Director, Dr. Ismael Abu Limon oversees multiple CleanSlate locations—including one of the largest centers in the company—and plays a key role in shaping the quality, consistency, and effectiveness of addiction treatment throughout the region. He provides supervision and mentorship for medical providers, strengthens operational performance, and leads interdisciplinary teams that prioritize patient-centered care, provider satisfaction, and measurable outcomes.

Education & Training

Medical School: Al-Quds University, School of Medicine – East Jerusalem, Palestine
Residency: Southern Illinois University – Internal Medicine
Fellowship: Case Western Reserve University/MetroHealth – Addiction Medicine

Clinical Expertise

Dr. Ismael Abu Limon delivers evidence-based outpatient treatment for:

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) – Buprenorphine/Suboxone & Brixadi
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) – including Vivitrol treatment
Poly-substance use
OUD Treatment in Pregnancy
Fentanyl and opioid withdrawal management
Hepatitis C screening & treatment
Behavioral health integration and harm-reduction care

His approach emphasizes access, compassion, continuity, and dignity—meeting patients where they are and helping them build a stable, sustainable recovery.

Leadership at CleanSlate

As the Clinical Medical Director for Wisconsin, Dr. Ismael Abu Limon:

Oversees five CleanSlate Centers, including one of the company’s highest-volume clinics.
Conducts operational assessments across all centers and strengthens clinical workflows.
Leads highly engaged interdisciplinary team (IDT) meetings with strong provider participation.
Partners with management to improve performance metrics and streamline patient care.
Supports CleanSlate’s Growth, Support & Retention pilot initiatives through data-driven insights and innovation.

He is widely recognized for bringing fresh perspectives and a solutions-oriented mindset to both clinical and administrative operations.

Locations

Dr. Ismael Abu Limon provides leadership and supervision for multiple CleanSlate Centers across Wisconsin, including:

Glendale

Green Bay

Greenfield

Waukesha

Sheboygan

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Academic Partnerships & Professional Development

Dr. Ismael Abu Limon is cultivating statewide academic partnerships, including a collaboration with the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) to host residents and trainees at CleanSlate clinics—expanding training in addiction medicine and strengthening regional access to high-quality MAT services. He is active in mentoring clinicians, supporting ongoing education, and promoting best practices in addiction treatment.

He is a proud member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).

Research & Global Public Health

Beyond his regional leadership, Dr. Ismael Abu Limon is conducting research on addiction, public health, and stigma in the Middle East. His work aims to increase awareness, improve early intervention, and expand access to addiction treatment in communities with emerging or underserved behavioral health needs.

He is committed to advancing global understanding of addiction and reducing barriers to care worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dr. Ismael Abu Limon

What conditions does Dr. Ismael Abu Limon treat?

He specializes in evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, poly-substance use, OUD pregnancy care, and co-occurring conditions.

Does Dr. Ismael Abu Limon provide specialized treatment for pregnant patients with OUD?

Yes. CleanSlate offers safe, evidence-based medications for OUD in pregnancy, with coordinated behavioral and prenatal support.

Does Dr. Ismael Abu Limon accept referrals from hospitals, detox centers, and correctional facilities?

Yes. He actively partners with systems across Wisconsin to streamline referrals and ensure continuity of care.