Buprenorphine (pain relief)

About buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It can also be used to ease pain before, during and after an operation, it works on the nerves and brain to reduce the pain you feel.

Before taking buprenorphine

Before taking buprenorphine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• If you suffer from asthma or breathing difficulties
• If you are an alcoholic, regularly drink large amounts of alcohol or if you have ever had a drug related problem
• If you have been taking any other opioid drugs e.g. heroin, methadone
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems
• If you have ever suffered a head injury or brain disorder
• If you suffer from low blood pressure.
• If you suffer from thyroid or prostate problems
• If you suffer from paralytic ileus (paralysis of the bowel muscle/blocked intestine) or if you suffer from intense stomach pain
• If you suffer from epilepsy, have a history of epilepsy or if you have ever had 'fits' of any kind
• If you suffer from phaeochromocytoma (a condition affecting the adrenal glands)

How to take buprenorphine

• If you are using the sublingual form of buprenorphine, the tablet should be placed under the tongue and allowed to dissolve completely. Avoid swallowing until tablet is fully dissolved.
• If you have been given skin patches, apply to dry, non-irritated, non-hairy skin on the upper body. Remove after 72 hours or 96 hours depending on the instructions of the patches you have been given. Apply the replacement patch to a different area of skin. Avoid the first area of skin for at least 6 days.
• Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Signs of overdose can include pinpoint pupils, difficulty breathing and eventually unconsciousness. If you suspect that you or someone else has had an overdose of buprenorphine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you if possible, even if empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Because buprenorphine is a controlled drug, if you are planning a trip abroad, check with the correct government department (HM Revenue and Customs) to see if you need any documentation for your medicine. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has a list of medicines that contain controlled drugs and can tell you the amount that you are allowed to take abroad. If you need to pack more of your medicine than you are allowed you will need to apply in writing for a licence from the Home Office before you travel.
• If a rash develops, where you have used a patch, avoid this area for as long as possible and speak with your doctor if it is severe

Can buprenorphine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store buprenorphine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light

Important information about all medicines