What is Suboxone?
buprenorphine patch (buprenorphine and naloxone) film is used for opioid dependence to reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that helps to reduce dependency, and naloxone blocks the effects of opioid medication, including pain relief or feelings of well-being that can lead to opioid abuse.
Suboxone sublingual films are used as a single daily dose.
Films should be placed under the tongue (sublingual administration) or inside the left or right cheek (buccal administration). Film should be allowed to completely dissolve.
Suboxone should be used as part of a complete treatment plan that includes counseling and psychosocial support.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Suboxone if you are allergic to buprenorphine or naloxone (Narcan).
To make sure Suboxone is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- tooth problems, including a history of cavities;
- breathing problems, sleep apnea;
- enlarged prostate, urination problems;
- liver or kidney disease;
- abnormal curvature of the spine that affects breathing;
- problems with your gallbladder, adrenal gland, or thyroid;
- a head injury, brain tumor, or seizures; or
- alcoholism or drug addiction.
If you use Suboxone while you are pregnant, your baby could become dependent on the drug. This can cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the baby after it is born. Babies born dependent on opioids may need medical treatment for several weeks.
ow should I take Suboxone?buprenorphine patch
Use Suboxone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides. Never use Suboxone in larger amounts or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine.
Before taking a Suboxone sublingual film, drink water to moisten your mouth. This helps the film dissolve more easily. Place one film on the inside of your right or left cheek. If your doctor tells you to take 2 films at a time, place the other film on the inside of the opposite cheek. Keep the films in place until they have completely dissolved. If your doctor tells you to take a third film, place it on the inside of your right or left cheek after the first 2 films have dissolved.
While the film is dissolving, do not chew or swallow the film because the medicine will not work as well.
Suboxone sublingual tablets should be placed under the tongue until they dissolve.
Never share Suboxone with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medicine in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away Suboxone is against the law.
