Buprenorphine for Pain
What is buprenorphine for pain?
Buprenorphine is a strong opioid painkiller used to treat moderate to severe chronic pain, especially when weaker medicines are ineffective. It is a prescription-only medicine usually provided as a transdermal patch, though sublingual tablets, implants, and injections may also be used depending on your circumstances. It is known by brand names like Butec, Buvidal, Espranor, Suboxone, and Subutex[1].
What is buprenorphine for pain used for?
Buprenorphine is prescribed for long-term pain conditions. These include[1]:
Chronic musculoskeletal pain (e.g. arthritis, back pain)
Cancer-related pain
Some cases of nerve pain
Palliative care pain management
Drug dependency
How does buprenorphine for pain work?
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which means[1]:
It attaches to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord
It reduces pain perception and interrupts pain signals
It causes fewer breathing-related side effects at higher doses compared other opioids
Who can take buprenorphine for pain?
Buprenorphine is usually only recommended when weaker opioids stop working for you. It is suitable for:
Adults with long-term pain unrelieved by other painkillers
Children if a specialist doctor recommends it
You should speak to your doctor first if you:
Have ever had an allergic reaction to buprenorphine or the adhesives if using the patch version
Have asthma or other lung conditions
Have sleep apnoea
Are addicted to alcohol or drugs
Have a head injury
Have a condition that causes fits or seizures
Have an irregular heartbeat
Have kidney or liver problems
Have low blood pressure
Have an impaired gut or bowel
Have long-term constipation
Have myasthenia gravis
Are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding
Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].
What is the typical dosage of buprenorphine for pain?
Slow-release transdermal patches are most commonly used for the treatment of long-term pain[1]:
Strengths: 5, 10, 15, or 20mg/hour
Patches are replaced weekly or multiple times each week depending on the brand
Dose is tailored to individual response
Always start with the lowest effective dose
Buprenorphine tablets and injections work quickly and are used for short-term pain.Your dosage will depend on your individual situation and your doctor’s recommendation[1].
How do you take buprenorphine for pain?
Patches must be applied correctly[1]:
Stick to hairless, clean, dry, non-irritated skin (upper arm, chest, or back)
Press for 30 seconds
Replace every 3, 4, or 7 days, at the same time. This depends on the brand you have been prescribed
Rotate sites to prevent irritation
Avoid heat sources like hot baths or sunbathing
Do not cut patches
Do not apply more than 1 patch at a time
Once removed, fold the patch on itself so that it sticks together making sure the medicated side is not exposed before disposal
Sometimes a buprenorphine patch may be prescribed with another painkillers. This is to manage sudden pain flare-ups that break through the relief the patches give. If you find you need break through pain relief more often and the patches no longer give you adequate pain relief, speak to your prescriber for a review[1].
Can you stop taking buprenorphine for pain?
No. Abrupt stopping may cause withdrawal symptoms like[1]:
Sweating, anxiety, shaking
Nausea or diarrhoea
Trouble sleeping
Your doctor will guide you through tapering off safely
What do you do if you take too much buprenorphine for pain?
Signs of overdose may include[1]:
Drowsiness or confusion
Slow breathing
Tiny pupils
Remove the patch and call emergency services immediately
What do you do if you forget to take buprenorphine for pain?
If you forget to change the patch:
Apply a new patch as soon as you remember
Do not use more than one patch at a time
Use a reminder or calendar to track your schedule
How do I store buprenorphine for pain?
Proper storage reduces risk of misuse[1]:
Keep below 25°C
Store in original packaging
Keep away from children
Fold used patches in half and return to pharmacy
What medicines can’t you take with as buprenorphine for pain?
Tell your doctor if you take any of the following[1]:
Other opioids or sedatives
Antidepressants (including SSRIs, MAOIs)
Benzodiazepines
Codeine
Antipsychotics
Muscle relaxants
Alcohol
HIV medication
Antihistamines
These combinations can increase drowsiness, serotonin syndrome risk, or breathing difficulties. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].
What are the side effects of buprenorphine for pain?
Side effects vary and should be monitored. Very common side effects include[1]:
Constipation
Nausea or vomiting
Headache or dizziness
Drowsiness
Confusion
Stomach pain
Itching or stomach rashes
Serious side effects include[1]:
Breathing problems
Muscle stiffness
Dizziness, tiredness, or low energy as a sign of low blood pressure
Dependence or withdrawal symptoms
You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1].
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:
Difficulty breathing
Tightness in throat and chest
Swelling of the tongue or throat
Feeling faint or dizzy
Blue/grey skin or lips
Loss of consciousness
If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice.
The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2].
Frequently asked questions about buprenorphine for pain
Can I drive while using buprenorphine?
Not until you are sure how it affects you. Do not drive if you feel drowsy or feel like your ability to drive is impacted in any way[1].
Can I drink alcohol with buprenorphine?
It’s best avoided as it may increase the risk of side effects[1].
Can I shower or bathe with the patch?
Yes but avoid hot baths or saunas. If the patches are exposed to high temperatures, they may release too much of the medication leading to side effects and possible overdose[1].
Can I cut the patch?
No – this may release too much medicine[1].
Can I use buprenorphine with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
Yes, if advised by a doctor[1].
Can I use it for short-term pain?
This depends on what is causing the pain and what the medication is prescribed for. With patches, these are usually given when pain releif is needed over a prolonged period and are used once you reach a stable dose[1].
Can I use buprenorphine during pregnancy?
Only under specialist advice[1].
Can I become addicted?
Yes, buprenorphine is an opioid and similar to other opioids may lead to dependency. This is why it is important to use the medication as prescribed and under supervision[1].
For the official NHS guide to buprenorphine, visit their website.
Medicines A-Z Directory Disclaimer
The information provided on this Medicines A-Z page is intended for general informational purposes only and was accurate as of June 2025. It is designed to offer simple, patient-friendly summaries of prescribed medications based on publicly available resources, including those from the National Health Service (NHS). This content does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a substitute for professional guidance from a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist.
Patients should always consult their healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any prescribed medication, and must inform them of any known allergies, medical conditions, or other medications being taken to ensure safe use. The inclusion of a medication on this page does not guarantee its availability, suitability, or approval for use in all cases, as prescribing decisions are made by healthcare professionals based on individual patient needs.
This page may include links to external websites, such as those maintained by the NHS or the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), for further information. These links are provided for convenience only and do not imply endorsement. The pharmacy is not responsible for the content, accuracy, or availability of external websites, nor for any consequences arising from their use.
Medical and regulatory information may change over time due to new research, updated guidelines, or changes in licensing by the MHRA. While the pharmacy endeavours to keep this information accurate, it cannot guarantee its currency at all times. Patients are advised to verify information with a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date advice.
The pharmacy accepts no liability for any loss, damage, or injury resulting from the use of or reliance on the information provided on this page, including any consequences arising from self-diagnosis, self-medication, or failure to seek professional advice.