What is the typical dose of buprenorphine and how is it taken?

• Every person is different, and dosing should be individualized to each person based on their report of a reduction of withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

• The recommended therapeutic (effective) dose of buprenorphine is between 16 mg and 24 mg.

• A typical maximum dose is 24 mg/per day, though some patients may require more to manage their withdrawal symptoms. [1]

How long does an individual take buprenorphine?

• The amount of time someone takes buprenorphine can range from person to person, but research has shown that individuals who stop buprenorphine have a higher risk for relapse, overdose, and death.

• Buprenorphine should be continued for as long as the individual finds it helpful in meeting their substance use and life goals.

• Many people mistakenly think that they are only “truly better" or "in recovery” once they stop buprenorphine. This is inaccurate. Opioids can cause lasting changes in a person's brain. This means medication is often needed long-term, so a person can function and reach their goals, such as getting or keeping employment, going to school, gaining independent housing, and connecting with family and friends.[1]

Can someone overdose on buprenorphine?

• Buprenorphine has a very low risk for overdose because of how it works in the brain.

• To overdose on opioids, the opioid must activate the opioid receptor in the brain to a very high degree. Buprenorphine has what is called a “ceiling effect” which means it can only activate the opioid receptors in the brain to a certain degree, even if a person keeps taking more buprenorphine. Heroin does not have this ceiling effect, which means taking more of it will continue to activate the opioid receptors in the brain to the point where it can cause an overdose. 

• In rare cases, a person may have buprenorphine in their system when they have an overdose, however, this is typically because they combined the buprenorphine with large doses of other drugs that were not prescribed to them, such as benzodiazepines and alcohol. [1]

How does someone know buprenorphine is working?

• A person will stop feeling withdrawal symptoms.

• A person will also experience fewer cravings to use opioids. The intensity of cravings will go down, but they may not completely go away. [1]
  
  

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