buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a schedule III controlled substance that has a risk for addiction and misuse. Misusing this medication might make it not work as well. It can also raise the risk for serious side effects, such as dangerously slow breathing and the inability to stay awake. Take buprenorphine exactly as prescribed. Don't change the dose or how often you take it without talking to your provider first.

Buprenorphine can cause dangerously slow breathing, which can be life-threatening. Your risk is higher if you take other medications that can slow your body down (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids), drink alcohol, or have breathing problems (e.g., COPD, asthma). People getting treatment for opioid use disorder can sometimes relapse, which puts them at high risk of breathing problems from opioid use. Your provider might recommend that you carry naloxone (Narcan) with you at all times in case you need to quickly treat these breathing issues. It's important for you and your loved ones know how to use naloxone (Narcan) in case you have extremely slowed breathing. Give naloxone (Narcan) and call 911 for medical help right away if you have trouble breathing or have bluish-colored lips, fingers, or toes.

If you take buprenorphine during pregnancy, you can pass the medication to your unborn baby. Long-term use during pregnancy can cause your unborn baby to become dependent on the medication and cause withdrawal symptoms after birth. Symptoms of withdrawal in your newborn can include high-pitched crying, poor feeding and sucking behavior, and seizures. This condition can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated in time. Make sure to tell your provider if you've taken buprenorphine during pregnancy. Specialized providers will know how to treat your newborn and make sure your baby gets the care they need once they're born.

Some people taking opioids experienced a drop in their adrenal hormone levels, especially if they took the medication for longer than 1 month. This side effect might be less likely with buprenorphine if it's used for treatment for a short period of time. Let your provider know right away if you experience symptoms of low adrenal hormones, including nausea, vomiting, not feeling hungry, tiredness, dizziness, and weakness. Your provider might need to stop buprenorphine and treat you with corticosteroids.

Some people taking buprenorphine have developed liver damage that's sometimes serious. The risk of harm might be higher if you already have liver problems. Your provider might recommend that you get blood tests before starting buprenorphine and periodically during treatment to make sure your liver is healthy. If you have liver damage, your provider might lower your dose of buprenorphine to prevent side effects. Let your provider know if you experience symptoms of liver problems, such as feeling tired, nausea, dark urine, pale stool, and yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin.

There have been reports of deaths from people who haven't taken opioids before and took a buprenorphine for pain. Buprenorphine is only for people who are currently taking opioids. It's also not meant to be used as a pain reliever.

Some people who took buprenorphine that's dissolved in the mouth have had dental problems. These problems have included cavities, infections, damaged teeth, and even tooth loss. Make sure you have regular cleanings and check-ups with your dentist. Practice good oral hygiene, and regularly brush your teeth and floss every day. After each dose is dissolved, swish some water around your mouth and then swallow. Make sure to wait at least 1 hour after taking buprenorphine before brushing your teeth.