How buprenorphine/naloxone works

Buprenorphine/naloxone is a combination of two medications that work on parts of your brain, called opioid receptors, to affect how you react to pain.

• Buprenorphine is an partial opioid agonist and works on opioid receptors to lower how much pain you feel. It’s not as strong as other common opioids like oxycodone (Roxicodone) and morphine.
• Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids. When used with buprenorphine, it helps prevent overuse or misuse.

Buprenorphine and naloxone work together to control opioid cravings while lowering the risk of bothersome side effects that happen when you stop taking opioids suddenly (withdrawal).

What is buprenorphine/naloxone used for?

• Opioid dependence