Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is buprenorphine. It is an important part of treatment to help people who are dependent on opioid drugs. This medication may have other uses, too. 

You should take this medicine exactly as prescribed. It is a sublingual tablet. You should place the tablet under your tongue and let it dissolve completely. Remember not to chew, swallow, eat, drink, or talk while the tablet is dissolving.

Many people will have side effects. Common side effects include headache, nausea, constipation, sweating, back pain, and trouble sleeping. It can also make you feel lightheaded, tired, or dizzy. You should wait until you know how it affects you before doing activities that require you to be alert, like driving. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. But do not suddenly stop taking it unless your doctor says it's okay.

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects could occur. You should read the medication guide to know which symptoms to watch for and when to get emergency medical help. 

Buprenorphine can have dangerous drug interactions. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines, and do not drink alcohol.
Buprenorphine can harm babies. Women must talk to their doctors before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding. 

This medicine is controlled by federal law. It can put you at risk for addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death. It can be dangerous to others, so store it in a safe place. After you stop taking it you should dispose of it properly. Ask your pharmacist about proper disposal options in your area or go to the FDA.gov website for more information.

For best results with buprenorphine, read the Medication Guide for full information. Also, be sure to complete the counseling and behavior therapy that your doctor recommends.