Buprenorphine is a medication prescribed by doctors to help people dependent on heroin (or other opiate drugs) manage cravings and reduce the harms of heroin use. It can be prescribed in an ongoing way or for a short timeframe to help with withdraw from heroin.
OTHER NAMES:
Bupe, B, Suboxone, Subutex, Pharmacotherapy, OSTP, Opiate Substitution Therapy Program, ORT, Opiate Replacement Program, on The Program, Norspan
UNDERSTANDING:
A student who is using non-prescribed buprenorphine may appear sleepy with small pupils and slurred speech and movements. They may feel relaxed and detached with reduced physical and emotional pain. Many young people use opiates because they have the power to temporarily dull physical and emotional pain. Side effects include nausea and sweating.
In Australia, buprenorphine generally comes in a yellow-coloured film about the length of a paperclip.
HOW TO HELP A YOUNG PERSON:
A student prescribed buprenorphine will usually need to go to the pharmacist every day to take their dose under supervision. Taking the right dose of prescribed buprenorphine should not hold a student back from participating in the classroom and achieving learning goals.
Using buprenorphine that is not prescribed will impair a young person’s ability to focus and engage. If you do suspect buprenorphine use, surrounding that young person with support factors and getting school welfare involved would be a good starting point. You could also call YoDAA for a secondary consult and talk through what you have observed.
For a more comprehensive guide we recommend the ADF’sinfo.
Taking the time to understand how to support a student is important. YoDAA can help navigate this with you.
Get help now
YoDAA is a free and confidential online and phone service that offers supports to young people, families and professionals. You can contact us 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday.
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