Buprenorphine for pain relief

Posted by cwallen9 @cwallen9, Jul 15, 2020

I just started on Buprenorphine (opiod) for my severe neuropathy pain (feet, legs, hands, and arms). I started with a new pain management doctor who uses this drug a lot. Buprenorphine is supposed to be much less addicting and you don't build up a tolerance to it. So far it really helps take the edge off of my neuropathy pain. I also have severe neck and back pain, but it doesn't seem to help that as much. Right now I am only on a 1mg dose of the tablet (dissolve under your tongue). Has anybody else had experience with this drug? Nothing else has helped me (gabapentin, Lyrica, Elavil, etc.).

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Neuropathy Support Group.

John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Jul 15, 2020

Hi @cwallen9, I remember you asking about Buprenorphine back in February. I'm happy to hear the Buprenorphine is helping with the neuropathy pain. Have you had any side effects from it? I'm wondering if @jimhd @artscaping @rwinney or other members may have had any experience with Buprenorphine.

Rachel, Volunteer Mentor | @rwinney | Jul 15, 2020

In reply to @johnbishop "Hi @cwallen9, I remember you asking about Buprenorphine back in February. I'm happy to hear the..." + (show)

This is interesting. I have not used Buprenorphine. My latest thoughts have been focused on OIH - Opioid Induced Hyperalgesia. I am beginning to wonder if I experience OIH from hydrocodone use. I've been researching how to tell, what to do about it. I will be damned if my pain is exacerbated by a drug that I'm taking to help with pain. Such a catch 22! Buprenorphine is in a mixed opioid class. Here's a snap shot of it.

Rachel, Volunteer Mentor | @rwinney | Jul 15, 2020

@cwallen9 Hi. Thanks for updating us on your treatment. I hope you have continued success with this medication. Your pain areas sound similar to mine including back and neck pain. May I ask what medication you took prior?

copeterson | @copeterson | Jun 14 9:01am

Similar experience. Seems to help some but fades quickly. Not sure it’s worth it. Still experiencing 6-7 pain in hands, shoulders, and neck daily. Cannot take another opioid pain reliever while taking this,

artemis1886 | @artemis1886 | Jun 16 8:38am

I tried buprenorphine not much luck. I hallucinate on hydrocodone ( see things floating through the air very scary), morphine quit breathing and turned blue. I currently take OxyContin, Oxycodone and muscle relaxers.

jenatsky | @jenatsky | Jun 16 1:45pm

I’m sorry for all of you for not having your dose increased. When you switch from morphine or oxycodone to buprenorphine there is a specific cross reference method docs have to follow. Sometimes it doesn’t workout very well. I started with 15mcg of buprenorphine patch x7 days nut within a week switched to 20mcg patch x7 days and I’m a happy man. The patch provides 24/7 pain relief as opposed to the pills. I haredly recommend you give this administration formula a try.