Drug
Buprenorphine
Pronounced
"BUE-pre-NOR-feen"
Uses
Buprenorphine is used to treat opioid use disorder. Buprenorphine belongs to a class of drugs known as mixed opioid agonist-antagonists. It helps prevent withdrawal symptoms caused by stopping other opioids. It is used as part of a complete treatment program for opioid use disorder (such as compliance monitoring, counseling, behavioral contract, lifestyle changes).
Warning
The insertion and removal of the buprenorphine implants may cause serious (rarely fatal) problems. Tell your doctor right away if the implant moves to another location, sticks out of your skin, or comes out by itself. If the implant comes out by itself, put the implant in a plastic bag and bring it to your doctor. Do not let others touch the implant and keep it away from others, especially children. Cover the area where the implant came out with a clean bandage.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you should have naloxone available to treat opioid overdose. Teach your family or household members about the signs of an opioid overdose and how to treat it.
You may also be at risk for nerve damage, infections at the insertion or removal site, or blockage of a blood vessel by the implant. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any of the following symptoms: numbness or weakness in your arm, severe pain/redness/swelling/bleeding at the insertion/removal site, or shortness of breath.
To receive buprenorphine in the United States, you must understand, agree to, and carefully follow the requirements of the REMS Program for this medication. If you live in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your doctor before you get this medication and each time you get it. If you have any questions, ask your doctor.
Your doctor will place 4 medicated implants under the skin of your upper arm. Each implant releases buprenorphine into your blood slowly and continuously over 6 months. After 6 months, your doctor will remove the implants. Your doctor may insert new implants in your other arm if you need to continue treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions for proper care of the place where the implants were inserted or removed. Consult your doctor for details.
If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as restlessness, watering eyes, runny nose, nausea, sweating, muscle aches). To help prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may direct you to take another medication. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used buprenorphine for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.
Do not remove the buprenorphine implants by yourself. This may cause severe withdrawal symptoms (see Side Effects section). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any withdrawal reactions.