What is Subutex (Buprenorphine)? Find Subutex Doctors Near Me. (Buprenorphine) Subutex Pill Uses. (Buprenorphine) Subutex 8mg Dose. How Long Does Subutex Stay in Your System? (Buprenorphine) Subutex Side Effects. Search for a Subutex Clinic Near Me.

How To Use Subutex

Follow your doctor’s instructions for using this medication, usually taken once daily. Position the medication beneath your tongue and let it dissolve fully, generally taking 5 to 10 minutes. If your prescription entails multiple tablets per day, you can either place all of them under your tongue simultaneously or put two tablets under your tongue at a time. Refrain from swallowing or chewing the medication, as it won’t be as effective.

Once the medication is completely dissolved, take a generous sip of water and gently swish it around your teeth and gums before swallowing. This practice helps safeguard your dental health. However, avoid brushing your teeth for at least an hour after using this medication.

Typically, buprenorphine alone is administered for two days after discontinuing all other opioids. Usually, this phase takes place at your doctor’s office. Subsequently, your doctor will transition you to the combined buprenorphine/naloxone medication for ongoing maintenance treatment. The buprenorphine/naloxone combination serves the same purpose as buprenorphine alone in preventing withdrawal symptoms. Naloxone is included to deter medication misuse (such as injection).

For optimal benefits, use this medication consistently. To aid in remembrance, take it at the same time each day.

Abruptly discontinuing this medication can result in withdrawal symptoms, mainly if you’ve been using it for an extended period or at high dosages. To avert withdrawal, your doctor might gradually reduce your dose. Notify your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you encounter any withdrawal symptoms, such as restlessness, alterations in mental state (including anxiety, sleep disturbances, or thoughts of suicide), watery eyes, runny nose, nausea, diarrhea, sweating, muscle discomfort, or sudden shifts in behavior.

Avoid injecting (“shooting up”) buprenorphine, as this is hazardous and can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms (refer to the Side Effects section). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more comprehensive information.

Promptly inform your doctor if your condition fails to improve or worsens.

Concerned about Buprenorphine use or need help with opioid dependence? Contact We Level Up, addiction care specialists who can offer personalized guidance and support. Call now for a free consultation, available 24/7.

Subutex Dose for Opioid Dependence

Here is a Subutex dose for opioid withdrawal table with directions on how to use it:

Note: It is crucial to start with a low Buprenorphine dose and gradually increase it as needed. This will help to reduce the risk of side effects.

Get help for Buprenorphine use and opioid dependence. Contact the addiction care specialists at We Level Up Treatment Center for personalized advice and support. Call now for a free consultation, available 24/7.

Additional information:

• Buprenorphine should be taken at the same time each day.
• If you forget to take a dose of Buprenorphine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take more than your prescribed dose of Buprenorphine.
• Buprenorphine can be taken with or without food.

If you experience any of the following side effects, alert your doctor:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Trouble sleeping
• Painful or difficult urination
• Changes in sex drive

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, please seek immediate medical attention:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Seizures

Talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns about using Buprenorphine.

Subutex Dose By Condition

Buprenorphine is most effective when the initial dose is initiated after the onset of opioid withdrawal indications. If started prematurely after your last opioid use, buprenorphine can trigger withdrawal symptoms. Adhere to the treatment plan outlined by your doctor.

Below is an example table showing different recommended Subutex doses based on specific conditions and general directions on using Buprenorphine. This illustration does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.

Please note that specific doses and directions for Buprenorphine may vary depending on individual circumstances, including factors such as medical history, response to treatment, and other medications being taken concurrently. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dosage instructions and treatment management.

Subutex Alternatives

Explore Your Options: Alternatives to Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorder

When treating opioid use disorder, several alternative drugs are available in different forms. Discuss your situation with a We Level Up opiate withdrawal specialist to determine which option is best for you.

Consider these alternatives:

• Buprenorphine: Available as an IM injection (Sublocade) or an implant (Probuphine).
• Buprenorphine and naloxone: Sublingual options include Bunavail, Suboxone, and Zubsolv.
• Lofexidine: Take tablets, such as Lucemyra.
• Methadone: Tablets, like Dolophine, are a viable option.
• Naltrexone: Choose between IM injection (Vivitrol) and tablets to suit your needs.

In case of opioid overdose, emergency options include:

Naloxone: Choose from nasal spray options like Narcan or Kloxxado or for Naloxone injection.

Additionally, there are other related medicines worth exploring:

Buprenorphine for severe pain: Consider IM injection (Buprenex), sublingual (Belbuca), or transdermal patch (Butrans).

Don’t settle for subpar treatment. Find the best alternative with a free consultation from We Level Up opioid treatment program specialists. We Level Up has been certified as an official opioid treatment program by the United States Substance Abuse and Mental Services Administration.

Subutex Side Effects Chart By Symptom Severity

Here’s a table showcasing Subutex side effects with columns indicating the severity and whether they are common, severe, short-term, or long-term effects:

Subutex Side Effects Signs & Symptoms

When taking Buprenorphine, you may experience side effects like:

• Drowsiness.
• Dizziness.
• Constipation.
• Headaches.

If these effects persist or worsen, promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist.

To counteract constipation, incorporate dietary fiber, maintain proper hydration, and engage in physical activity. You might also consider using a laxative, but consult your pharmacist to determine the appropriate type.

To minimize the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, rise gradually when transitioning from a seated or lying position.

Misuse, injection, or combination with other depressants (like alcohol, benzodiazepines such as diazepam, or other opioids) can lead to severe (possibly fatal) breathing problems.

Notify your doctor promptly if you experience any significant side effects, including instances of interrupted breathing during sleep (sleep apnea), shifts in mental or mood states (such as restlessness, confusion, hallucinations), discomfort or pain in the stomach/abdominal area, tooth or gum pain, or indications of compromised adrenal gland function (like unusual fatigue or weight loss).

If you encounter highly severe side effects, seek medical assistance immediately. These include fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, intense dizziness, shallow or slow breathing, unusual drowsiness, or difficulty waking up.

Although this medication is intended to avert withdrawal reactions, there is a rare possibility that it might induce opioid withdrawal symptoms. These may encompass diarrhea, pronounced mental or mood fluctuations (such as anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping), or muscular rigidity or trembling. This occurrence is more likely when initiating treatment or after using extended-release opioids like methadone. If you notice such symptoms, promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist.

In isolated cases, this medication may lead to significant liver issues. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience any signs of liver damage, such as persistent nausea or vomiting, darkened urine, loss of appetite, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or intense abdominal pain.

While uncommon, a severe allergic reaction to this drug can occur. If you observe any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including rash, itching, swelling (particularly of the face, tongue, or throat), profound dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical help promptly.

The aforementioned enumeration does not encompass all conceivable side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you detect any other effects not mentioned above.

Buprenorphine Warnings

Before commencing this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly regarding brain disorders (such as head injury, tumor, seizures), respiratory issues (such as asthma, sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD), liver disease, mental/mood disorders (like confusion, depression), gastrointestinal problems (such as blockage, constipation, infection-related diarrhea, paralytic ileus), and difficulty urinating (due to an enlarged prostate).

Before surgery, communicate with your doctor or dentist about all your products, including prescription drugs, nonprescription medications, and herbal products.

This drug has the potential to induce dizziness or drowsiness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can amplify these effects. Buprenorphine warnings include:

• Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in tasks requiring alertness until you can do so safely.
• Abstain from alcoholic beverages. Additionally, note that alcohol heightens the risk of breathing problems.
• If you’re using marijuana (cannabis), discuss it with your doctor.

Important Safety Information: Subutex sublingual tablets should not be used as a pain medication.

WARNING: Abuse of opioid medicine can lead to addiction, overdose, or even death. Keep this medication secure and out of reach from others. Do not share opioid medicine with anyone, especially those with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep it out of reach to prevent unauthorized access. Remember, selling or giving away opioid medicine is illegal.

Caution: Using opioid medicine during pregnancy can result in potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms for the newborn.

Be wary: Combining opioid medicine with alcohol or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow breathing can have fatal side effects.

Buprenorphine Heart Rhythm QT prolongation

Buprenorphine may lead to a heart rhythm condition known as QT prolongation. This rare condition can result in serious (and rarely fatal) instances of rapid or irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as intense dizziness or fainting) that necessitate immediate medical attention.

The probability of QT prolongation may increase if you have specific medical conditions or are taking other medications that may trigger QT prolongation. Before using buprenorphine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking and whether you have any of the following conditions: specific heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation observed in an electrocardiogram) or a family history of particular heart issues (QT prolongation noted in an electrocardiogram, sudden cardiac death).

Buprenorphine Potassium or Magnesium Warning

Insufficient levels of potassium or magnesium in the bloodstream can also heighten the risk of QT prolongation. This risk could increase if you use specific medications (like diuretics or “water pills”) or have conditions such as profuse sweating, persistent diarrhea, or frequent vomiting. It’s important to discuss the safe usage of buprenorphine with your doctor.

Buprenorphine Dental Problems Warnings

Specific individuals taking this medication might encounter dental issues (such as tooth decay, loss, cavities, and infections). Arrange a dental appointment shortly after beginning this medication and inform your dentist about your use of it. To proactively prevent dental problems, undergo regular dental check-ups and learn about maintaining good oral health. In case of tooth or gum discomfort, promptly inform your doctor and dentist.

Buprenorphine Elderly Warnings

Elderly individuals may experience heightened sensitivity to the side effects of this medication, mainly confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, slow/shallow breathing, and QT prolongation (refer to the above discussion).

Buprenorphine Pregnancy Warnings

Before initiating this medication, women of childbearing age should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their doctor(s). Inform your doctor if you are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Throughout pregnancy, this medication should be utilized only when it is necessary. Using it during the initial two months of pregnancy may slightly elevate the risk of birth defects. Furthermore, extended usage or high doses nearing the expected delivery date could pose a risk to the unborn baby. To mitigate this risk, adhere to the smallest effective dose for the briefest duration possible. If you observe any unusual symptoms in your newborn, such as persistent and unusual crying, slow/shallow breathing, irritability, vomiting, or diarrhea, promptly inform the doctor.

Buprenorphine Breast Milk Wanings

This drug enters breast milk and may occasionally harm a nursing infant. If your baby experiences unusual sleepiness, difficulty feeding, or breathing troubles, promptly notify the doctor. It is recommended to consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Caution: Subutex sublingual may interact with other medications.

Inform your doctor if you are taking antibiotics, antifungal medications, heart or blood pressure medications, seizure medications, or medications for HIV or hepatitis C.

Risk of dangerous side effects or death. Let your doctor know if you are also using:

1. Cold or allergy medicines, bronchodilator asthma/COPD medications, or diuretics (“water pills”).
2. Medications for motion sickness, irritable bowel syndrome, or overactive bladder.
3. Other opioid medications, including opioid pain medicines or prescription cough medicines.
4. Sedatives such as Valium, diazepam, alprazolam, lorazepam, Xanax, Klonopin, Versed, and others.
5. Medications that cause drowsiness or slow breathing include sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, mood disorders, or mental illness treatments.
6. Medications that affect serotonin levels include stimulants, medications for depression, Parkinson’s disease, migraine headaches, serious infections, or nausea and vomiting.

There are additional interactions not listed here.

Additional products that could interact with this medication include pain medications (mixed opioid agonist-antagonists like butorphanol, nalbuphine, and pentazocine), naltrexone, and samidorphan.

Interactions with alcohol, marijuana, antihistamines, sleep or anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, and opioid pain relievers.

The risk of severe side effects (such as slow/shallow breathing, intense drowsiness, or dizziness) could escalate if this medication is used alongside other products that might influence breathing or induce drowsiness. Notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are concurrently taking other substances like alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), antihistamines (like cetirizine, diphenhydramine), sleep or anxiety medications (such as alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), as well as other opioid pain relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone).

Review the labels on all your medicines (including allergy or cough-and-cold products), as they might include ingredients that induce drowsiness. Consult your pharmacist for guidance on using these products safely.

Fatalities have been recorded due to the improper utilization of buprenorphine through injection (“shooting up”), particularly when combined with benzodiazepines (like diazepam) or other depressants such as alcohol or additional opioids.

This is not a complete list. Buprenorphine may interact with other prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products.

Signs and symptoms of Subutex overdose may include:

It is essential to use Buprenorphine as prescribed to minimize the risk of overdose. An overdose occurs when someone takes a higher dose of a substance than their body can handle, leading to potentially dangerous or life-threatening symptoms.

If you suspect an overdose of Buprenorphine or know someone who may have overdosed, find immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room. While waiting for help to arrive, stay with the person and provide support and reassurance.

Signs and symptoms of Subutex overdose may include:

1. Extreme drowsiness or sedation
2. Suspiciously slow or shallow breathing
3. Bluish lips or nails indicating poor oxygenation
4. Weakness or muscle limpness
5. Cold or clammy skin
6. Pinpoint pupils
7. Loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness
8. Slow or absent heartbeat

Remember that an overdose can have severe consequences and should be treated as a medical emergency. Immediate medical intervention can be life-saving. While waiting for professional help, try to keep the person awake and responsive, monitor their vital signs, and provide CPR if necessary (only if trained).

Preventing an overdose involves using Buprenorphine under the guidance of a healthcare professional, following the prescribed dosage, and avoiding combining it with other substances that can depress the central nervous system (such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other opioids) unless specifically directed by a doctor.

If you have concerns about Buprenorphine use or are seeking guidance on managing opioid dependence, reach out to an addiction care specialist like the We Level Up treatment center. Our professionals can provide personalized advice and support. Call for a free consultation 24/7.

Subutex dose, condition use for, color, shape, & imprint chart for opioid dependence treatment

Subutex is a brand of buprenorphine commonly used for treating opioid dependence. It works by partially activating the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and support.

Need help with Buprenorphine misuse or managing opioid dependence? Talk to the addiction care specialists at We Level Up Treatment Center. Our professionals offer personalized advice and support. Contact us 24/7 for a free consultation.

Buprenorphine dose, condition use for, color, shape, & imprint chart for all conditions.

Here’s a table showcasing different Subutex dose strengths, the corresponding conditions for use, the color and shape of the tablets, and the imprints that can be found on them.

It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or refer to a reliable medication resource for the most accurate and current information.