Topical / Subling / IV / IM
Buprenorphine
Norspan patch, Temgesic sublingual tablet
Used for pain relief and opioid addiction
Mechanism of Action
- Acts on opioid receptors (δ, κ and μ) and nociceptin orphanin FQ (NOF) receptors on neuronal cell membranes within the thalamus, diencephalon, midbrain and medulla, resulting in reduced neurotransmitter release.
Pharmacology
- Less histamine release (flushing, itching, rash) and less constipating than natural opioids.
Clinical Use
- Indications
- Acute and chronic pain
- Opioid addiction
- Adverse Effects
- Nausea / vomiting
- Constipation
- Sedation
- Respiratory depression
- Diaphoresis
- Delirium
- Hypersensitivity - bronchospasm, urticaria
- Bradycardia
- Tolerance
- Dependence
- Hypogonadism
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