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Buprenorphine
This drug is a semi-synthetic
narcotic derived from thebaine and is currently being investigated for
the treatment of narcotic addiction. Like methadone and LAAM, buprenorphine
is potent (30 to 50 times the analgesic potency of morphine), has a long
duration of action, and does not need to be injected. The buprenorphine
products under development are sublingual tablets. Unlike the other treatment
drugs, buprenorphine produces far less respiratory depression and is thought
to be safer in overdose. Buprenorphine is currently available in the United
States as an injectable Schedule V narcotic analgesic (Buprenex®)
for human and veterinary use.
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