Because buprenorphine can cause drowsiness, other medicines that also cause drowsiness may increase this effect of buprenorphine. Some medicines that cause drowsiness are:

• alcohol-containing medicines

• barbiturates such as phenobarbital

• certain antidepressants or tranquilizers

• certain antihistamines used in cold medicines

• muscle relaxants

• other strong pain medicines such as morphine, propoxyphene, hydrocodone

Ask your prescriber or health care professional about other medicines that may increase the effect of buprenorphine.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking Buprenorphine?

Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how buprenorphine affects you. Stand or sit up slowly; this reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. These effects may be worse if you are an older patient. The drowsiness should decrease after taking buprenorphine for a couple of days.

Be careful taking other medicines that may also make you tired. This effect may be worse when taking other medicines that cause drowsiness along with buprenorphine. Alcohol can also increase possible drowsiness, dizziness, confusion and affect your breathing. Avoid alcohol while taking buprenorphine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Buprenorphine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

• breathing difficulties

• cold, clammy skin

• confusion

• a decrease or difficulty in passing urine

• hives, itching

• lightheadedness or fainting spells

• nervousness or restlessness

• rash

• swelling of ankles

• unusually slow breathing

• yellow skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• anxiety

• blurred vision or any change in vision

• confusion

• constipation

• dizziness

• drowsiness

• headache

• insomnia

• nausea

• sweating

• vomiting

Where can I keep my medicine?

This does not apply. You will not be given buprenorphine injection to use at home.

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