sideeffectsSUBOXONE (buprenorphine and naloxone)

What is it: Buprenorphine is an opioid medication. Buprenorphine is similar to other opioids such as morphine, codeine, and heroin however, it produces less euphoric (“high”) effects and therefore may be easier to stop taking.

Use: Treating opioid dependence. It should be used as part of a complete narcotic dependence treatment plan. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Suboxone is an opioid (narcotic) partial agonist-antagonist. It works by binding to receptors in the brain and nervous system to help prevent withdrawal symptoms in someone who has stopped taking narcotics (eg, heroin, oxycodone).

Side Effects: Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome: Chills; constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; flushing; headache; nausea; sleeplessness; stomach pain; sweating; vomiting; weakness.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur: Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); anxiety or nervousness; dark urine; mental or mood changes (eg, depression); pale stools; severe or persistent stomach pain; slow or shallow breathing; yellowing of eyes or skin.

Precautions: Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Suboxone ; it may add to their effect. Do not eat, drink, or smoke while the tablet is dissolving. Take Suboxone on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. Taking Suboxone at the same time each day will help you remember to take it. Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Suboxone before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

If you stop taking Suboxone suddenly, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms.

Directions: Do not swallow, crush, or chew sublingual tablets. Place the tablet under your tongue and allow it to slowly dissolve.

Missed Doses: If you miss a dose of Suboxone , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage: Store Suboxone at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Suboxone out of the reach of children and away from pets..