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RSD Alert is a voluntary organisation publishing RSD/CRPS information, mostly provided by our readers. Every approved medical drug works for some people but not for others. Don't be alarmed by what you read. If in doubt consult your medical advisor.
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Drugs

Drugs on RSD Alert

(notes and comments from correspondents)

Buprenorphine
Description
 A narcotic analgesic, which is on the controlled Drugs list but is thought to be less addictive than e.g. Morphine. It is long lasting and the effects of one dose may last up to 12 hours. Taken orally as tablets placed under the tongue. Also marketed as Temgesic
Side effects

(Don't be unduly alarmed. All drugs cause side effects for some patients)

 Drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, sweating dizziness, mood changes, hypotension (low blood pressure). May precipitate withdrawal symptoms if used together with other narcotic analgesics.
Warnings

(These are standard cautions but may not be applicable to your case)

 Should not be used for patients who have suffered head injury. Caution is needed with patients who have asthma or low blood pressure or who have impaired liver or kidney function. Care advised if the patient is in the final stages of pregnancy or is elderly.

Comments
I have very positive things to say about Temgesic (buprenorphine) In 0.2mg sublingual tabs for me it addresses the deep bone aches by at least 70%. Temgesic (buprenorphine) is largely an antagonist at low levels. This means that the brain/body does not develop a tolerance. Thus, once at a desired level you can maintain that level forever. It has a long lasting effect of at least 5 hours, no side effects just a little drowsiness. No "highs". Pam - Brisbane, Australia

I take Buprenorphine (Temgesic) and it keeps my pain within bearable limits. Martin - Liverpool, England

I have suffered on and off with the most terrible headaches for probably the last 10 years and have tried a whole range of drugs. Some of the drugs work sometimes and sometimes they don't. Recently my Doctor asked me to try Temgesic next time I had an onset of headaches.
After using Temgesic sublingual tabs, I was very impressed with the results. I got relief from the pain quite quickly and had no side affects. The following day I was completely free from any indication or aftermath of the headaches which normally I am not.
I really believe at last I have found something that works and provides relief with out any major side affects. Greg - Brisbane, Australia

I have suffered with severe ME/CFS for 6 years, and have tried many medications, including morphine, to help with excruciating leg muscle pain. Like others with ME, who are intolerent to many drugs, the side-effects of medication can outweigh any benefit, yet this has not happened with bruprenorphine (Temgesic). My pain is at its worst in the evening reaching a crescendo in the night, yet 30-40 minutes after taking Temgesic even entrenched pain can be "blown out " of my muscles. It gives me a relief I have not found with any other drug or holistic intervention. If you have ME with severe pain, do ask your GP about Temgesic as in the UK it is not on the small list of medications generally prescribed for the illness, and it took me several years of trial and error with a sympathetic GP and Pain Consultant to find it. Jayne - Liverpool, England
(Although Jayne does not have RSD her pain problems are similar and her comments are most helpful - Ed)
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