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Subutex

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Generic Name: Buprenorphine hydrochloride
Product Name: Subutex

Indication

  • Maintenance of opioid dependence
  • Opioid withdrawal

Action

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid receptor agonist. Reduces withdrawal symptoms and craving for opioids in opioid dependence

Dose advice

Buprenorphine maintenance:

  • Initial dose 4mg sublingual in the morning; an additional 2-4mg may be given in the afternoon on the first day.
  • Increase daily dose by 2-4mg at 1-3 day intervals, depending on withdrawal symptoms and tolerance of adverse effects.

Usual maintenance range:

  • 12-24mg daily

Opioid withdrawal:

  • Dose and length of treatment is tailored according to severity of withdrawal symptoms and tolerance of adverse effects.
  • Typical withdrawal regimens use an initial dose of 4-8mg daily, reducing over 5-8 days to zero

Administration instructions:

  • Place tablet under tongue until dissolved- takes 2-10 minutes

Schedule

S8


Common side effects

Adverse effects may be difficult to distinguish from mild opioid withdrawal:

  • Constipation
  • Dyspepsia
  • Hypotension
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Uncommon side effects

  • Bradycardia
  • Severe itching

For further information talk to your doctor.


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Dates

Posted On: 22 July, 2003
Modified On: 20 October, 2015

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Created by: myVMC