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Buprenorphine
What is it? Overview Usage Side Effects and Warnings
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Buprenorphine Overview

Written by FoundHealth.

(byoo pre NOR feen)

U.S. Brand Names

Buprenex®; Subutex®

Canadian Brand Names

Buprenex®; Subutex®

Mexican Brand Names

Brospina; Temgesic; Transtec

Pharmacologic Category

Analgesic, Opioid

What key warnings should I know about before taking this medicine?

• Subutex® is only used to treat drug addiction.

• This medicine does not mix well with some medicines. Serious reactions may occur. Check all medicines with healthcare provider.

Reasons not to take this medicine

• Do not give the tablets to a child younger than 16 years of age.

• If you have an allergy to buprenorphine or any other part of this medicine.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.

• If you are breast-feeding.

How does it work?

• Buprenorphine binds to areas in the brain to decrease cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

• It binds to brain receptors, relieving pain. It decreases the feeling of pain and a person's response to pain.

How is it best taken?

Injection:

• This medicine is given as a shot.

• Follow instructions closely if you or a family member are giving the shot at home.

• Throw away needles in needle/sharp disposal box and return box to healthcare provider when full.

Oral:

• Sublingual tablet: Place under tongue and let dissolve.

What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)

• Take a missed dose as soon as possible.

• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.

• Many times this medicine is taken on an as needed basis.

What should I monitor?

• Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?

• Keep a diary of pain control.

• Follow up with healthcare provider.

How should I store this medicine?

• Store at room temperature.

• Protect tablets from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.

General statements

• If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.

• Most medicines can be thrown away in household trash after mixing with coffee grounds or kitty litter and sealing in a plastic bag.

• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).

• Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or in Canada to Health Canada's Canada Vigilance Program at 1-866-234-2345.

• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.

Created: 2006-10-13 11:04:17.0

Modified: 2010-03-19 13:31:51.0

Lexi-PALS TM © (1977)-(2007) Lexi-Comp, Inc. All rights reserved.

 
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