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Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch

This page contains brief details about the drug buprenorphine transdermal patch, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Buprenorphine is a painkiller which was approved for its medical use in July 2010.

Mechanism of Action of Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch

Buprenorphine is a potent painkiller classified under strong analgesic agents. It operates by targeting the central nervous system and partially activating opiate receptors. This medication alleviates mild to moderate pain and helps ease withdrawal symptoms associated with addiction. For addiction management, buprenorphine is often prescribed in combination with naloxone.

Uses of Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch

Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch has been developed to treat opioid addiction and indicated for moderate, long-lasting pain that requires strong painkiller.

Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch Drug administaration and Dosage available

Buprenorphine is available as a transdermal patch in the concentrations 5mcg, 10mcg and 20mcg. The dosage will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your condition. Use this patch exactly as recommended by your healthcare provider. Do not cut or divide them. Do not use more than one transdermal patch at a time. Apply this patch on a clean, dry and hair less part of your skin. Do not use it on areas with redness or scars.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch

Warnings

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath, fever, or any other discomfort while on treatment with Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch. During the Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood cell counts, electrolytes and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have had a history of smoking, alcohol addiction, constipation, head injury, sleep disorders, seizures, fits, convulsions, asthma, mood disorders, heart failure or liver problem. Do not use Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch if you are having high body temperature or if you are below 18 years of age.

Precautions

It is not recommended to use Buprenorphine during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is advisable to tell your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to have a baby.

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch are headache, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, nausea, vomiting, itchy skin, inflammation at the site of patch application, loss of appetite, confusion, depression, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, nervousness, shaking, stomach pain, indigestion, sweating, dry mouth, skin eruption, tiredness, weakness, swelling of ankles, hands or feet. Serious side effects of Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch include breathing trouble and low blood pressure. If you experience symptoms such as breathing difficulty, rashes, itching, wheezing, report to your doctor immediately.

Word Of Advice

Buprenorphine can make you feel dizzy and tired. Hence, you should avoid driving or handling machines while on this treatment.

Frequently Asked Question

Tell your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Buprenorphine if you have any allergies, have a history of head injury, seizures, fits, liver disorders or taking prescription medicines or supplements.
Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch typically takes about a day or two to start working.
Drinking alcohol while on treatment with Buprenorphine can affect your reaction to the medication and increase the risk of side effects. Hence alcohol consumption is not recommended while using Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch.
Do not receive Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch if you are allergic to Buprenorphine or any of its ingredients, have a skin problem at the planned site of Transdermal Patch or if you are below 18 years of age.
Your healthcare provider determines how long you will remain on Buprenorphine treatment. Do not stop using Buprenorphine Transdermal Patch without consulting your physician.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.