Probuphine Implant
Generic name:buprenorphine (implant) [ BUE-pre-NOR-feen ]
The Probuphine brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. If generic versions of this product have been approved by the FDA, there may be generic equivalents available.
What is Probuphine?
Probuphine is an opioid medication. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic.
Probuphine implants are used to treat narcotic addiction in certain people whose addiction has already been treated and controlled with other forms of buprenorphine (such as Subutex or Suboxone). Probuphine implants are for adults and teenagers who are at least 16 years old.
Probuphine implants are available only from a certified pharmacy under a special program. You must be registered in the program and understand the risks and benefits of using this medicine. The implants are not for use as a pain medication.
Warnings
Inserting and removing Probuphine implants can cause serious or life-threatening complications.
Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using Probuphine. Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Probuphine implants if you are allergic to buprenorphine.
To make sure Probuphine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had::
breathing problems, sleep apnea;
problems with your gallbladder or thyroid;
an enlarged prostate, urination problems;
Addison's disease (an adrenal gland disorder);
abnormal curvature of the spine that affects breathing;
a head injury, brain tumor, or spinal cord problems;
mental illness or psychosis;
alcoholism; or
skin problems such as unusual scars or growths.
If you use buprenorphine while you are pregnant, your baby could become dependent on the drug. This can cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the baby after it is born. Babies born dependent on buprenorphine may need medical treatment for several weeks. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Buprenorphine can pass into breast milk and may cause drowsiness or breathing problems in a nursing baby. Ask your doctor about any risks.
Probuphine implants not approved for use by anyone younger than 16 years old.
How is Probuphine implant administered?
A Probuphine implant is a 1-inch rod that is inserted throug...
