Bunex (Buprenorphine) 0.2mg by Safe-Pharma / Strip

About Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine belongs to a class of drugs called 'opioid analgesic' primarily used to treat opioid addiction (narcotics) like morphine, heroin, etc. In some cases, it is also used to treat, prevent and treat moderate to severe pain. Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease that affects a person's brain and behaviour and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medication.

Buprenorphine contains 'Buprenorphine', an opioid partial agonist-antagonists that prevent withdrawal symptoms in patients who stop receiving opioid drugs by producing similar effects to these drugs. It has been approved for the treatment of narcotic-use disorders. A combination of buprenorphine and naloxone is prescribed for use in the treatment of opioid dependence. It also provides pain relief by acting on specific receptors in the brain and helps in relieving pain.

Buprenorphine will be administered by a trained healthcare professional. Hence, do not self-administer. This medicine may cause certain side effects such as dry mouth, vomiting, blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, tiredness and injection site reactions. Most of these side effects of Buprenorphine do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.

Buprenorphine should be avoided if you are allergic to it. Do not use Buprenorphine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may cause adverse effects on the baby. This medicine is not recommended for children below 18 years of age. Buprenorphine is a habit-forming drug, and there is a risk of dependence on Buprenorphine. Hence, do not stop receiving Buprenorphine without consulting a doctor as it may cause withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, increased heart rate, tremors or general unwell feeling. Buprenorphine may decrease fertility in men and women. Do not consume alcohol with Buprenorphine as it may increase the risk of side effects. Inform your doctor if you have respiratory disorders, heart diseases, high blood pressure, and liver or kidney disease before starting treatment with Buprenorphine.

Uses of Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is used in the treatment of Opioid (drug) addiction, Pain. The detailed uses of Buprenorphine are as follows: • Moderate to Severe Pain: Buprenorphine is used when non-opioid analgesics are ineffective; especially in post-operative or trauma settings. • Opioid Use Disorder (OUD): Buprenorphine reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms; used as part of a comprehensive addiction treatment program.

Medicinal Benefits

The Buprenorphine contains Buprenorphine as a substitution (replacement) treatment in patients addicted to opioid drugs (heroin and morphine, etc.). It prevents or reduces the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms experienced when addicts stop using opioid drugs. It also provides pain relief by acting on specific receptors in the brain and helps in relieving pain. Compared to other opioid analgesics like methadone, Buprenorphine has the advantage of having less sedation (sleepiness), decreased respiratory depression, decreased risk of diversion, fewer withdrawal symptoms and lower risk of toxicity at higher doses. 

Directions for Use

• Your doctor will determine the dosage and timing of Buprenorphine based on your medical condition.
• Buprenorphine is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) by a healthcare professional in a medical setting.
• Do not self-administer it.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight

Side Effects of Buprenorphine

• Weakness
• Nervousness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Orthostatic hypotension (a sudden dip of blood pressure on standing)
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sweating
• Injection site reactions