Buprenorphine (addiction treatment)

About buprenorphine (addiction treatment)

Buprenorphine works to replace the heroin that you have previously used and prevents withdrawal symptoms.

Before taking buprenorphine (addiction treatment)

Before taking buprenorphine (addiction treatment) 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 or regularly drink large amounts of alcohol
• 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 (addiction treatment)

• The tablet should be placed under the tongue and kept there until it has dissolved. Avoid swallowing until the tablet is fully dissolved.
• 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 it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Sometimes the doctor will ask for you to take buprenorphine in the pharmacy where the pharmacist will supervise you. This is to help you stick with your treatment.
• The pharmacist can only dispense the prescription as the doctor directs, a supply without a prescription is not possible. If you do not stick to appointments with your drugs worker and/or doctor you risk having problems with you prescription.
• If you miss more than two or sometimes three doses the pharmacist may have to refer you back to the doctor.
• 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.
• Keep your appointments with your doctor or your Centre. The people there want to do everything they can to help you overcome drug dependency.

Can buprenorphine (addiction treatment) 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 (addiction treatment)

• 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