buprenorphine

noun

bu·pre·nor·phine | \ ˌbyü-prə-ˈnȯr-ˌfēn

, -fən \

Definition of buprenorphine

: a semisynthetic narcotic analgesic that is administered in the form of its hydrochloride C₂₉H₄₁NO₄·HCl to control moderate to severe pain and treat opioid dependence

Note: Buprenorphine is administered by injection to control pain, is used in the form of a transdermal skin patch to control pain or treat opioid dependence, and is used in combination with naloxone in the form of a dissolvable tablet placed under the tongue or film placed inside the cheek to treat opioid dependence.

Examples of buprenorphine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Researchers have yet to publish studies comparing different ways to administer buprenorphine. — Jenny Gold, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 25 May 2022 Opioid prescription rates exclude prescriptions for buprenorphine, which treats pain as well as addiction to narcotic pain relievers. — Lauryn Schroeder, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Mar. 2022 But buprenorphine is not the best option for everyone. — Emily Alpert Reyesstaff Writer, Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2022 Unlike buprenorphine, another medical treatment for people with an opioid use disorder, methadone can only legally be dispensed at an opioid treatment program, a clinic specially designed for the purpose. — Lindsey Ellefson, The New Republic, 27 Apr. 2022 Overdose deaths decreased 59% for those receiving methadone and 38% for those treated with buprenorphine, according to the study funded by the National Institutes of Health. — Freep.com, 21 Jan. 2022 Tim had been prescribed Suboxone again, the antidote with buprenorphine, which the doctors had explained would not have the same euphoric effect as the previous medication. — Katie Bain, Billboard, 19 Jan. 2022 Most of the pregnant people who have been prosecuted are those who used opioids like buprenorphine and methadone to treat substance use disorders. — ELLE, 6 Apr. 2022 The nearest opioid treatment program may be several hours’ drive away, and the local pharmacy may not stock or dispense buprenorphine. — Emma Biegacki, STAT, 20 Mar. 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'buprenorphine.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Last Updated

23 Jun 2022

Cite this Entry

“Buprenorphine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/buprenorphine. Accessed 30 Jun. 2022.

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More Definitions for buprenorphine

buprenorphine

noun

bu·pre·nor·phine | \ ˌbyü-prə-ˈnȯr-ˌfēn, -fən

Medical Definition of buprenorphine

: a semisynthetic narcotic analgesic that is derived from thebaine and is administered in the form of its hydrochloride C₂₉H₄₁NO₄·HCl to control moderate to severe pain and treat opioid dependence