Buprenorphine is a Schedule III semi-synthetic opiate that binds to mu receptors and that can cause toxic effects if abused.
Uses of buprenorphine:
(1) chronic pain management
(2) treatment of opioid addiction (Suboxone = buprenorphine plus naloxone)
The drug may abused by grinding up the pill into a fine powder and then either inhaling the powder or making a solution that is injected.
Signs of misuse:
(1) pinpoint pupils
(2) extreme drowsiness or tiredness to impaired level of consciousness
(3) dizziness
(4) blurred vision
(5) slow or absent breathing
(6) collapse
If Suboxone is injected and if the patient is addicted to opiates, then the patient may experience sudden and severe withdrawal reactions.
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Purpose: To evaluate a patient who is abusing buprenorphine.
Specialty: Toxicology, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
Objective: clinical diagnosis, including family history for genetics, adverse effects
ICD-10: F11.1,
