Buprenorphine

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Oct 30, 2023

Pros & Cons


Buprenorphine Pros and Cons

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  • Buprenorphine can effectively treat opioid use disorder as part of a medication-assisted treatment along with behavioral therapy. 
  • You only need to take this medicine once daily.
  • The sublingual tablets and buccal film are easy to use.
  • There is a lower-cost generic version of buprenorphine available.

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  • Buprenorphine can cause potentially life-threatening breathing problems, especially if taken with other CNS depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedatives, and skeletal muscle relaxants.
  • Suddenly stopping buprenorphine can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
  • This medication is a Schedule III drug, and you must fulfill special criteria before you can get a prescription filled.