Buvidal

Scientific Names: Buvidal® prolonged-release solution for injection

Generic Names: Enwau Generig: Buprenorphine prolonged-release solution for injection

You cannot always be sure that what you buy is what you get, but if you want to send any substance off for testing, you can send it to WEDINOS

What does it look like?

Pre-filled syringe containing a yellowish to yellow clear liquid

Effects of Buvidal

Desired Effects:

As it is a slow release formulation effects such as euphoria are thought to be neglible

Side Effects:

Reaction at injection site, drowsiness, respiratory depression (more likely if taken at the same time as other central nervous system depressants)

Harm Reduction

This medication is not given to an individual to have in their possession: it is always administered by a healthcare professional

Risks

Long term risks:

Precipitated opioid withdrawal (if taken too soon after an full opioid agonist), tolerance, accidents/overdose (due to central nervous system depression), serotonin syndrome, liver impairment

Short term risks:

Dependence

How does Buvidal work?

Central nervous system depressant, opioid analgesic

Legal status of Buvidal

Prescription only medication (controlled drug - Schedule 3) Class C under the Misuse of Drugs Act

Administered by a healthcare professional under the skin (in the buttock, thigh, abdomen or upper arm) either once a week or once a month, with potential for additional doses in between to enable dose optimisation and manage opioid withdrawal symptoms if required.

Paraphernalia

This medication is not given to an individual to have in their possession: it is always administered by a healthcare professional

Medical uses of Buvidal

To treat opioid dependence

Where Does it Come From?

A synthetic mixed opioid that acts on opioid receptors in the brain and also blocks them. Supplied from regulated manufacturers and prescribed to individuals.

Helping Services

As this medication is slow-releasing and always in the possession of and administered by healthcare professionals, the risk of diversion is not thought to be an issue when compared to alternative oral formulations of buprenorphine. Specialist drug treatment services offer a range of services including harm reduction advise and psychosocial support in addition to prescribed interventions such as Buvidal®. However Buvidal® is only a treatment option where the drug treatment service is funded to provide this medication and has trained and competent staff to be able to administer it. In some areas community pharmacies or GP practices may also be able to administer this medication depending on how the local drug treatment services are organised. In case of any issues the relevant prescriber should be contacted. Any adverse events should be reported using the yello card system: https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/

Search Drugs and Terms