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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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