This
drug is a semi-synthetic narcotic derived from
thebaine and is currently being investigated for
the treatment of narcotic addiction. Like methadone
and LAAM, buprenorphine is potent (30 to 50 times
the analgesic potency of morphine), has a long
duration of action, and does not need to be injected.
The buprenorphine products under development are
sublingual tablets. Unlike the other treatment
drugs, buprenorphine produces far less respiratory
depression and is thought to be safer in overdose.
Buprenorphine is currently available in the United
States as an injectable Schedule V narcotic analgesic
(Buprenex®) for human and veterinary use.
Source: DEA
On October 8, 2002 the Schedule
III narcotic medications Subutex® (buprenorphine
hydrochloride) and Suboxone® tablets (buprenorphine
hydrochloride and naloxone hydrochloride) received
FDA approval for the treatment of opioid addiction.
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