How is suboxone (buprenorphine) different from other opioids, like heroin or oxycodone?

Buprenorphine, the active ingredient in Suboxone, is different from other opioids in a number of important ways.  All opioids work on receptors in the brain called mu receptors (along with a number of other effects, but the mu receptors in the brain are the important ones in opioid effects involved with addiction).  Buprenorphine is different in that:  first, it binds more strongly to the mu receptors than heroin or oxycodone, blocking their effects, and second, when it does bind the receptors, it does not fully activate them.  This means essentially that the effects are less strong, so you don't get high from it, or a least not any where near as much.  This allows the drug to block withdrawal, which is one of the main problems people encounter when they try to quit opioids.  It also reduces craving for opioids, helping you to get back control of your life.