Buprenorphine: Methadone Symptoms & Side Effects

Question: Can buprenorphine be a long-term treatment for pain?

(Posted by: Squiggler on 2011-09-06 12:24:32)

To cut a long story short I went to A &E yesterday in agony due to trochanteric bursitis in both hips. I have fibromyalgia and have recently been diagnosed with chondromalacia patellae. The three combined had me metaphorically on my knees and Tramadol (which I had previously been prescribed) wasn't doing anything for the pain. I was prescribed one 5 microgram buprenorphine patch and the doctor was writing to my GP to request that he issues another in 7 days. I am due to have a first appointment with the chronic pain specialist on 15th September and I understand that they may withdraw, increase or continue to prescribe the patches. In terms of pain relief it's done a lot to help, but not really enough. I'm more comfortable than I was but still in pain. Assuming they continue to prescribe buprenorphine at this dose or increase it, is it used as short- term relief or a longer- term treatment? The pain from these conditions has no end and is getting worse as I'm getting older (I'm 29 now).

Posted by: misscacazzy on 2011-09-06, 12:31:52

If you need it to live a life i cant see what is wrong,take the pain away and the drug withdrawal can start.It seems to me you need to go on a high dose and then they can start physio which will help then you be able to cut it down.with me i have it here and because i know i can use it when i need to i tend not to,if did not have it here then i go nuts with pain..the patches are for chronic pain and should not cause addiction because very slow release

Posted by: Autumn on 2011-09-06, 16:21:27

Hi. i am on butrans patches long term. i started on 10mg and within 2 weeks went up to 20mg patches. they are ideal for long time use as the slow release is gentler on your liver than pills. i also take dihydrocodeine tablets, slow release morphine, nefopam, paracetamol, ibuprofen and codeine for the pain. diazepam and tizanidine also help. my pain is still not controlled but at least i don't scream any more. chronic pain and disability are **** and i will take anything i think helps. i hope you are able to continue the tramadol if it helps on top of the patch. you will find that the patches release more medication into your system on day 1 and 4 and less on day 7. don't know why, my gp told me. any more pain meds questions i'm your woman, i think i've taken them all. best wishes, A x