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Buprenorphine Safety and Warning Information

Buprenorphine is a medication with significant potential risks that require careful consideration. Below are important safety precautions and warnings to follow:

• Addiction and Misuse Risk: Buprenorphine is a schedule III controlled substance with a risk of addiction and misuse, potentially leading to serious side effects like dangerously slow breathing. Always use buprenorphine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• Breathing Issues: This medication can cause severe, potentially life-threatening breathing problems. The risk increases when starting treatment, increasing doses, or combining with other substances such as alcohol or drugs that cause drowsiness or respiratory depression. Contact medical help immediately if you experience slow or shallow breathing, severe drowsiness, or difficulty waking.

• Opioid Overdose: Take buprenorphine as directed to avoid overdose. Keep the medication out of reach from children and others to prevent accidental ingestion. Overdose symptoms include extreme drowsiness, slow breathing, and loss of consciousness. Have naloxone available and ensure household members know how to use it in case of an emergency.

• Pregnancy Risks: Use during pregnancy only when necessary, as it may slightly increase the risk of birth defects and cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns. Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, and use the smallest effective dose for the shortest duration.

• Low Adrenal Hormones: Long-term use can lead to low adrenal hormone levels, presenting symptoms like nausea, tiredness, and dizziness. Inform your healthcare provider if these symptoms occur.

• Blood Pressure Concerns: Buprenorphine may cause low blood pressure, leading to dizziness or fainting, especially when changing positions. Rise slowly from sitting or lying down to prevent falls.

• Liver Damage Risk: Buprenorphine can potentially cause liver damage, particularly in those with pre-existing liver conditions. Monitor for symptoms and inform your doctor if you have a liver condition.

• Dependence and Withdrawal: Long-term use may cause physical dependence, with withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. Gradual dose reduction is recommended under medical supervision.

• Dental Issues: Some users have experienced dental problems such as cavities and tooth loss. Maintain good oral hygiene and consult a dentist regularly.

• Seizure Risk: Buprenorphine may increase seizure risk, particularly in individuals with a seizure history. Inform your healthcare provider of any history of seizures.

• Heart Rhythm Problems: Buprenorphine may cause QT prolongation, affecting heart rhythm. Those with heart conditions or electrolyte imbalances should use caution and consult their healthcare provider.

Special Precautions:

• Avoid using buprenorphine if you have allergies to buprenorphine products, severe respiratory issues, or specific gastrointestinal blockages.
• Discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider to ensure this medication is safe for you.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and before making any changes to your medication regimen.

When taking this medication, you might experience some common side effects such as nausea, constipation, vomiting, headache, sleepiness, dizziness, and fatigue. These effects are generally mild and tend to decrease over time. However, if they persist or worsen, consider consulting your healthcare provider. To manage constipation, incorporate dietary fiber, drink plenty of fluids, and stay active. Rising slowly from sitting or lying down can help minimize dizziness and lightheadedness.

In addition to common side effects, some individuals may experience dry mouth, stomach pain, reduced appetite, sweating, itching, rash, or difficulty sleeping. Although these are less common, if they become bothersome or severe, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider.

There are rare but serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include dangerously slow breathing, symptoms of overdose such as extreme drowsiness and slowed heartbeat, and opioid withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and restlessness. Heart rhythm issues signaled by chest pain or a fluttering sensation, and severe allergic reactions such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, also fall into this category. Additionally, buprenorphine may rarely cause severe liver damage, indicated by persistent nausea, loss of appetite, severe abdominal pain, jaundice, or dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek urgent medical care.

While most people do not experience severe reactions, it is important to be aware of these possibilities to ensure timely action if necessary. Always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure the safe use of this medication.