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Buprenorphine

Also known as: Subutex / tec / su su



What's This?

Subutex comes in 2mg and 8mg pills. Its active ingredient is Buprenorphine Hydrochloride, which is a semi-synthetic opioid derivative closely related to morphine. Subutex is taken sublingually i.e. to place it under the tongue until it dissolves. However, abusers mixed it with other prescription drugs and it is injected for a greater 'high'.

A photograph of buprenorphine

Effects & Dangers

  • Sedation
  • Light-headedness
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Vomiting

Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Delirium tremens, clouding of consciousness and severe tremours or seizures
  • Anxiety, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
  • Abdominal cramps, muscle and joint pains
  • Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)

Medical Complications

Medical complications arising from intravenous abuse of Subutex especially when mixed with other prescription drugs:

  • Clogging of veins leading to gangrene
  • Breathing problems (respiratory depression) which can lead to death

The sharing of needles can also cause the spread of Hepatitis B and C and the HIV virus if the needles are contaminated.