Buprenorphine

Note: modified release preparations are not included in this reference.

Trade name

Temgesic

Strength

300 microgram/mL (volume: 1 mL)

IV administration

Injection: Give undiluted or dilute to a convenient volume and give over at least 2 minutes.

Continuous infusion: Dilute to 30 microgram/mL or weaker with sodium chloride 0.9% and give as a continuous infusion using a syringe or infusion pump with DERS.

Refer to relevant local guideline for more information.

RCH Standard Concentrations:

300 microgram/ 50 mL (6 microgram/mL)

900 microgram/ 50 mL (18 microgram/mL)

1500 microgram/50 mL (30 microgram/mL)

Other routes of administration

IM: Suitable. Give by deep IM injection.

SC: Suitable. May be given as an intermittent injection or continuous SC infusion in palliative care settings.

Compatible IV fluids

Buprenorphine 150 microgram/mL or weaker:

Glucose 5%

Glucose 5% and sodium chloride 0.9%

Hartmann’s

Sodium chloride 0.9%

Y-site only and buprenorphine 150 microgram/mL or weaker:

Potassium chloride 20 mmol/L

Additional information

Extravasation risk.

Concomitant use of CNS depressants (e.g. other opioids, parenteral benzodiazepines, IM olanzapine) increases the risk of respiratory depression, sedation, coma and death.

Monitor respiratory rate, sedation, heart rate and blood pressure.

Use only when facilities for cardiac monitoring and cardio-respiratory resuscitation exist.

Taper the infusion slowly when discontinuing treatment; abrupt discontinuation may cause symptoms of withdrawal.

Protect from light during storage.