Summary of buprenorphine pharmacology
| FEATURE | RESULT |
|---|---|
| Very tight binding to opioid receptors | Displaces other opioids from opioid receptors Triggers withdrawal in patients physically dependent on opioids Blocks the analgesic action of other opioids |
| Slow dissociation from opioid receptors | Long duration of action Relieves withdrawal and cravings for 24 h or longer |
| No bioaccumulation | Allows quick titration to effective dose |
| Partial agonist with ceiling effect | Very low risk of overdose Might be less effective than higher doses of methadone |
| SL and IV absorption; poor oral absorption | Can be abused intravenously |
| Combined with naloxone | When injected, naloxone will trigger withdrawal in patients physically dependent on opioids; this serves as a deterrent to IV use |
IV—intravenous, SL—sublingual.