Suboxone for heroin addicts is like benzodiazepines for alcohol withdrawal. It should only be used in the initial withdrawal period for a short period of time.

The proper protocol is to substitute the short-acting heroin for the longer half-life Suboxone. This stabilizes the blood levels, thereby eliminating inter-dose withdrawal symptoms.

The dose is supposed to be titrated to zero over a few weeks. Otherwise you'll just end up swapping on addiction for another.

It's a shame, because Buprenorphine is a really good medication when used properly.