Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 30, 2022.
Insertion and removal of the buprenorphine implant are associated with the risk of implant migration, protrusion, and expulsion resulting from the procedure. Rare but serious complications including nerve damage and migration resulting in embolism and death may result from improper insertion of drug implants inserted in the upper arm. Additional complications may include local migration, protrusion, and expulsion. Because of the risks associated with insertion and removal, the buprenorphine implant is available only through a restricted program called the PROBUPHINE REMS Program. All healthcare providers must successfully complete a live training program on the insertion and removal procedures and become certified, prior to performing insertions or prescribing buprenorphine implants .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Probuphine
Available Dosage Forms:
- Implant
Therapeutic Class: Opioid Dependency
Pharmacologic Class: Opioid Agonist/Antagonist
Chemical Class: Opioid
Uses for buprenorphine
Buprenorphine implant is used for the maintenance treatment of opioid (narcotic) dependence in patients who have received other medicines containing buprenorphine (eg, Suboxone®, Subutex®).
When a narcotic medicine is used for a long time, it may become habit-forming, causing mental or physical dependence. Physical dependence may lead to withdrawal side effects if the narcotic is stopped suddenly. Severe withdrawal side effects can usually be prevented when a person is switched to buprenorphine. It acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to help prevent the withdrawal side effects.
Buprenorphine is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of a trained healthcare professional.
Before using buprenorphine
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For buprenorphine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to bu..
