What is Bunavail?
Bunavail is a medication that comes in buccal film form, which is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is an opioid medication, also known as a narcotic. Naloxone obstructs the consequences of opioid medication, including pain relief or feelings of well-being that can lead to opioid abuse.
This medication is generally used to treat opioid addiction and should not be taken as a pain medication. It is necessary to store the medication in a place where others cannot get to it because the misuse of opioid medication can lead to addiction, overdose, or even death. If used during pregnancy, it can cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. Fatal side effects can also occur if used with alcohol or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow breathing.
There are certain medical conditions where the use of this medication is not recommended, including a history of tooth problems, breathing problems, sleep apnea, enlarged prostate, urination problems, liver or kidney disease, abnormal curvature of the spine that affects breathing, problems with your gallbladder, adrenal gland, or thyroid, head injury, brain tumor, or seizures, alcoholism or drug addiction. You should not use Bunavail if you are allergic to buprenorphine or naloxone. If you use Bunavail while breastfeeding, your baby could become dependent on this medication, leading to severe withdrawal symptoms.
The medication should be used precisely as directed by the doctor and should never be used in larger amounts or for longer than prescribed. If you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine, you should inform your doctor. It should never be shared with another person, particularly someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Bunavail should not be crushed or broken to inhale the powder or mix it into a liquid to inject the drug into your vein as this practice has resulted in death. You will need frequent blood tests to check your liver function. All your medical care providers should know that you are being treated for opioid addiction and that you are taking Bunavail.
You should be aware if anyone is using it improperly or without a prescription. Dosage should be adjusted to a level that holds the patient in treatment and suppresses opioid withdrawal signs and symptoms. Doses should be titrated to clinical effectiveness as rapidly as possible as gradual titration may lead to higher drop-out rates.
