Buprenorphine Pharmacology, Clinical Uses and Potential Side Effects

Buprenorphine was introduced in the United States as an injectable analgesic in 1981 and treatment option for opioid dependence in 2002; a transdermal formulation was approved for pain management in 2010. Following the introduction of this variety of dosage forms, buprenorphine use and misuse have increased significantly. This book begins by reviewing the pharmacology of buprenorphine and co-ingredient naloxone; its use in addiction medicine and pain management; and clinical challenges, with special emphasis on drug-drug interactions (pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic), safety concerns, and buprenorphine misuse. The book continues to discuss the role of buprenorphine as an analgesic; the application of buprenorphone in acute and chronic pancreatitis; and the substitution maintenance treatment of opioid dependence with buprenorphine and naloxone.