Buprenorphine

Dosage Forms Available

• Buprenorphine is available in administration via oral (sublingual tablets and film, buccal film), topical (transdermal patches), intravenous (injection) and intramuscular (injection) routes.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is intended for use by adults and is not recommended for children under 16 years of age.

Contraindications

• Buprenorphine is contraindicated in patients with severe respiratory depression or obstructive airway disease. Its use should also be avoided in individuals with paralytic ileus (condition that occurs when the muscles of the intestines are paralyzed), acute alcoholism, or delirium tremens (disorder due to excessive alcohol use).

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine can interact with sedatives (e.g., diazepam, alprazolam), CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin), CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine) and serotonergic and dopaminergic medicines (e.g., fluoxetine, haloperidol).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Buprenorphine can lead to symptoms such as pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, slurred speech, confusion, impaired memory, slowed breathing, and loss of consciousness. If an overdose is suspected seek immediate medical help.
• If a dose of this medicine is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage side effects like constipation, try to include more fibre in your diet and drink plenty of water.
• If experiencing drowsiness or dizziness, avoid activities that require mental alertness until these effects subside.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• As Buprenorphine may cause drowsiness and dizziness, it might affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. It is advisable to refrain from such activities if you experience these effects.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• It is advisable to consult a doctor before using Buprenorphine during pregnancy and lactation as it might have potential risks.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with head injuries, intracranial lesions (deterioration of brain cells), elevated intracranial pressure or those with obstructive pulmonary disease should use Buprenorphine with caution. The medicine should also be used cautiously in elderly, debilitated (physically weak), or malnourished individuals.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• It is recommended to stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Regular counselling sessions can be beneficial in dealing with opioid dependence.