Buvidal Weekly and Buvidal Monthly (Buprenorphine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Buvidal Weekly and Buvidal Monthly Used For?
Buvidal is a medication that contains buprenorphine, which helps individuals manage opioid dependence by reducing withdrawal symptoms.
Primary Uses
Buvidal Weekly is used for initiating and maintaining treatment of opioid dependence, while Buvidal Monthly is used for ongoing maintenance after stabilization.
How It Works
Buprenorphine acts as a substitute for opioids, helping to alleviate withdrawal symptoms over time.
Good to know: Buvidal is not considered addictive when used as prescribed.
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How to Take Buvidal Weekly and Buvidal Monthly
Buvidal is administered by a healthcare professional through an injection. The dosage may be adjusted based on individual needs.
Dosage Instructions
Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate starting dose. Buvidal Weekly can be adjusted up to a maximum of 32 mg weekly, and Buvidal Monthly can be adjusted up to 160 mg monthly.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss an appointment for your injection, contact your healthcare provider to reschedule as soon as possible.
Important: Do not double the dose if you miss an appointment.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Flushing
- Tremors
- Decreased appetite
- Pain during urination
- Swelling of legs and arms
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of face or throat
- Severe fatigue
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Low blood pressure
Impulse Control Issues
There may be risks of impulse control issues, such as gambling or spending problems, associated with Buvidal.
Important Warnings
There are significant risks associated with the use of Buvidal, especially concerning respiratory depression and potential for misuse.
Who Should Not Take Buvidal Weekly and Buvidal Monthly
Do not use Buvidal if you have a known allergy to buprenorphine or any of its ingredients, are under 16 years of age, or have serious liver or respiratory issues.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your healthcare provider if you have kidney disease, liver problems, respiratory conditions, a history of seizures, or substance use issues.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as Buvidal may affect you and your baby.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Caution is advised when prescribing Buvidal to elderly patients, especially those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Buvidal can interact with various medications, which may affect its efficacy and safety.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Buvidal works, so discuss with your healthcare provider.
- Benzodiazepines
- Gabapentinoids
- Alcohol
- Cannabis
- Antidepressants
- Antihistamines
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Antipsychotics
- Other CNS depressants
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol or operating machinery while on Buvidal, as it may cause drowsiness and respiratory issues.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol while taking Buvidal can increase the risk of serious respiratory problems.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Buvidal affects you, as it may cause dizziness and drowsiness.
Storage
Buvidal should be stored under the required conditions by the healthcare facility administering the treatment.
Overdose Information
In the unlikely event of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
The effects of Buvidal can vary, but it is designed to help manage opioid dependence over time.
Food does not significantly affect the absorption of Buvidal, but consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Buvidal is not considered addictive when used as prescribed for opioid dependence.
Stopping Buvidal suddenly may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment.
It is advised to avoid alcohol while taking Buvidal, as it can increase the risk of respiratory problems.
Weight gain is not commonly reported, but individual responses can vary. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Elderly patients should use Buvidal with caution, especially those with dementia or other cognitive impairments.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.