1. Is buprenorphine a painkiller?
Buprenorphine is a potent pain killer. It works by acting on specific brain receptors. Since it is an opioid analgesic, doctors recommend it only when your body has stopped reacting to other pain relief methods. You must use buprenorphine patches or tablets only on the recommendation of a healthcare practitioner. Never use it for mild pain that will disappear in a few days.
2. How well does buprenorphine work on chronic pain?
Buprenorphine is ideal for chronic pain. Several medical studies have revealed that this drug has a beneficial effect in reducing pain intensity when used appropriately. Doctors recommend it for cancer patients, post-operative pain management, and serious injuries. However, it is possible to become addicted to buprenorphine if used long-term without consultation.
3. When can I take buprenorphine?
Buprenorphine is available as a skin patch, injection, or sublingual tablet (dissolves in the mouth). Apply a buprenorphine skin patch as per the recommendation of a doctor. As a sublingual tablet, place it under your tongue and allow it to dissolve. Don't chew or crush it. Never use buprenorphine for long periods of time and take/apply this medicine as directed by your doctor.
4. Does buprenorphine make you sleepy?
Feeling sleepy is one of the most common side effects of buprenorphine. Others include indigestion, vomiting, drowsiness, lightheadedness, or constipation. However, because all of them are minor side effects, they are not worrisome. It is advisable to speak with a healthcare practitioner if these symptoms persist.
5. Does caffeine affect buprenorphine?
Yes, several studies have revealed that caffeine affects buprenorphine. If you have caffeine in any form (such as coffee, tea, sodas, or energy drinks) while consuming this medication, it may alter the efficacy of buprenorphine. Thus, it is advisable to seek your doctor's advice before continuing to consume caffeine.
6. Who should not take buprenorphine?
You should not consume buprenorphine if you are:
- Below 18 years of age
- Allergic to buprenorphine or any other opioid
- A heavy drinker
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Having liver or kidney problems
- Suffering from a head injury or having a history of seizures seizures
- Suffering from irregular heart rate
- Prone to low blood pressure
7. Can buprenorphine cause liver damage?
While some patients have experienced reduced liver functioning, there is no scientific evidence that proves the role of buprenorphine in liver damage. Clinical trials conducted worldwide reveal that this drug is suitable as the first line of alternative treatment for chronic pain and opioid addiction. It is advisable to seek the opinion of a medical practitioner.
8. Does buprenorphine help with chronic pain?
Buprenorphine is ideal for chronic pain. It works by binding to the body's opioid receptors. These receptors control the feeling of pain and emotions in humans. It can relieve chronic pain over a certain period. As a highly potent medicine, doctors recommend it to cancer patients, post-surgical patients, and those suffering from severe injuries if they can tolerate opioids.
9. How long does the effect of buprenorphine last?
After administering buprenorphine as a transdermal patch, sublingual tablet, or injection, it activates the brain receptors within forty minutes to three and a half hours, as per studies. The effect can last for up to three days at a stretch. You need to take this medication exactly as per a doctor's prescription without changing the dosage or duration.
10. When is it safe to take buprenorphine?
Buprenorphine is a potent opioid drug. Since long-term use of buprenorphine could lead to addiction, it is important to take this medicine only on your doctor's prescription. Buprenorphine should not be combined with any other narcotic or pain-relieving medicine. If you are pregnant, addicted to alcohol, or have a liver or heart condition, consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
You can have all your drug-related questions answered by our team of experts at Yashoda Hospitals today.
