How should I use Butrans?

Apply the patch to your skin. Do not cut or damage the patch. A cut or damaged patch can be very dangerous because you may get too much medicine. Select a clean, dry area of skin on your upper outer arm, upper chest, upper back, or the side of the chest. Do not apply the patch to broken, burned, cut, or irritated skin. Use only water to clean the area. Do not use soap or alcohol to clean the skin because this can increase the effects of the medicine. If the area is hairy, clip the hair with scissors, but do not shave.

Take the patch out of its wrapper. Bend the patch along the faint line and slowly peel the outer portion of the liner, which covers the sticky surface of the patch. Press the patch onto the skin and slowly peel off the protective liner. Do not use a patch if the packaging or backing is damaged. Do not touch the sticky part with your fingers. Press the patch to the skin using the palm of your hand. Press the patch to the skin for 15 seconds. Wash your hands at once.

Keep patches far away from children. Do not let children see you apply the patch and do not apply it where children can see it. Do not call the patch a sticker, tattoo, or bandage, as this could encourage the child to mimic your actions. Used patches still contain medicine. Children or pets can have serious side effects or die from putting used patches in their mouth or on their bodies.

Take off the old patch before putting on a new patch. Apply each new patch to a different area of skin. If a patch comes off or causes irritation, remove it and apply a new patch to a different site. If the edges of the patch start to loosen, first apply first aid tape to the edges of the patch. If problems with the patch not sticking continue, cover the patch with a see-through adhesive dressing (like Bioclusive or Tegaderm). Never cover the patch with any other bandage or tape. To get rid of used patches, fold the patch in half with the sticky sides together. Then, flush it down the toilet. Alternately, you may dispose of the patch in the Patch-Disposal Unit provided. Never throw the patch away in the trash without sealing it in the Patch-Disposal unit. Replace the patch every 7 days. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not use more medicine than you are told to use.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

If a patch accidentally touches the skin, use only water to clean the area. Do not use soap or alcohol to clean the skin because this can increase the effects of the medicine. If someone accidentally uses a buprenorphine patch and is not awake and alert, immediately call 911 for help. If the person is awake and alert, call a doctor, health care professional, or the Poison Control Center.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of Butrans contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: Butrans is only for you. Do not share Butrans with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.