Buprenorphine Sandoz
Buprenorphine Sandoz patches contain buprenorphine and are used to treat moderate to severe long-lasting pain in adults when strong pain relief is needed, but they are not for sudden pain.
How to Use
Dosage
Apply one patch to your skin and change it every seven days, ideally at the same time of day. Do not use more than two patches at a time (maximum total dose 40 micrograms/hour).
Method
The patch is applied to clean, dry, and unbroken skin on the outer upper arm, upper chest, or upper back. Avoid hairy areas, skin damage, or redness. Press the patch firmly onto the skin with your palm for 30 seconds, ensuring the edges stick well.
The maximum daily dose is 40 micrograms per hour, meaning no more than two patches at a time.
Possible Side Effects
- •Headache, dizziness, drowsiness
- •Constipation, feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting)
- •Itchy or red skin
- •Rash, itching, redness, swelling, or inflammation where the patch is applied
- •Chest pain (related to heart disease)
- •Mental health problems
- •Balance problems
- •Swelling of eyelids or face, narrowed pupils
- •Breathing difficulties, worsening asthma, unusually strong breathing
- •Dizziness, especially when standing up
- •Skin redness
- •Difficulty swallowing, blocked bowel
- •Local allergic reaction with clear swelling (treatment must be stopped)
- •Swelling and irritation in the nose
- •Erectile dysfunction, sexual problems
- •Flu-like symptoms
- •Dehydration
Important Warnings
- Do not use if allergic to buprenorphine or any other ingredients in this medicine.
- Do not use if you have severe breathing problems or a drug addiction.
- Avoid if taking certain antidepressants or MAO inhibitors, or have used them in the past 2 weeks.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver problems, seizures, or Myasthenia Gravis.
- Do not use if you have withdrawal symptoms from alcohol (e.g., restlessness, anxiety, sweating).
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- Avoid alcohol during treatment as it can worsen side effects and affect your reactions.
- Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding unless specifically advised by your doctor after careful consideration.
- This medicine can make you drowsy or dizzy; do not drive or use machines if affected, or for 24 hours after removing the patch.
- Do not expose the patch to direct heat (like heating pads, saunas, hot baths) as this can increase drug absorption.
- Remove the patch and seek medical help immediately if you experience severe allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash).
- There is a risk of dependence or addiction with this medicine, especially with high doses or long-term use.
- This medicine is not for children or teenagers under 18 years old.
- Dispose of used patches safely by folding them sticky sides together, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
- Consult your doctor if you recently had surgery, have a high body temperature, head injury, or constipation.
Use in Elderly Patients
Suitable for older adults, with specific precautions. Sedative. Low transdermal efficacy in cachectic patients. Increases the risk of confusion and falling. Need for laxative is often necessary. (updated 24.3.2025)