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Groin tissue necrosis requiring skin graft following parenteral abuse of buprenorphine tablets
Author(s) -
FEENEY G. F. X.,
FAIRWEATHER P.
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
drug and alcohol review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.018
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1465-3362
pISSN - 0959-5236
DOI - 10.1080/0959523031000154508
Subject(s) - buprenorphine , medicine , anesthesia , opioid , intensive care medicine , receptor
In May 2002 Buprenorphine (Subutex®) was listed on the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Schedule for treatment in opioid dependence. In addition to broadening treatment options, buprenorphine has the advantage of an improved safety profile. The risk of overdose is lessened but other risks remain due to diversion. French experience reports widespread deviation of buprenorphine sublingual tablets to intravenous injection. We report a case of attempted parenteral administration of buprenorphine tablets. Stringent protocols for dispensing are appropriate.