Generic name(s):
buprenorphine (oral)
Brand name(s):
buprenorphine, Subutex
What is the most important information I should know about buprenorphine?
Using buprenorphine improperly will increase your risk of serious side
effects or death. Even if you have used other narcotic medications, you may still have
serious side effects from buprenorphine. Follow all dosing instructions carefully.
Like other narcotic medicines, buprenorphine can slow your breathing. Death may occur
if breathing becomes too weak.
Never crush a tablet or other pill to mix into a liquid for injecting the
drug into your vein. This practice has resulted in death with the misuse of
buprenorphine and similar prescription drugs.
Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are using
buprenorphine, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider
who treats you should know that you are being treated for narcotic addiction.
Taking buprenorphine together with other drugs that cause drowsiness can slow the
functions of your breathing and central nervous system to dangerous levels. These
effects could result in a fatal overdose.
Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of
buprenorphine. Using too much of this medicine in addition to drinking alcohol can
cause death.
You may have withdrawal symptoms when you stop using buprenorphine after using
it over a long period of time. Do not stop using this medication suddenly without first talking to
your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.
Buprenorphine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be
careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
What is buprenorphine?
Buprenorphine is an opioid (narcotic) medication that is similar to morphine, codeine, and
heroin.
Buprenorphine is used to treat narcotic addiction.
Buprenorphine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking buprenorphine?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to buprenorphine or naloxone (Narcan),
or if you have used another narcotic drug within the past 4 hours.
Before using buprenorphine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you
have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use
buprenorphine, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
Buprenorphine should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Buprenorphine should never be given to another person, especially someone who has a
history of drug abuse or addiction. Buprenorphine can cause withdrawal effects in a
person who is addicted to narcotics. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot
get to it.
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. It
could also cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother takes
buprenorphine during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
during treatment.
Buprenorphine passes into breast milk and may be harmful to a nursing baby. It may
also decrease breast milk production. Do not use buprenorphine if you are
breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give this medication to a child.
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