Does Subutex Lower Blood Pressure?

Medically Reviewed by Johnelle Smith, M.D. on July 14, 2021

Subutex (buprenorphine) is an addiction medication. Side effects can occur while taking Subutex, including decreased blood pressure.

Does Subutex Cause Low Blood Pressure?

Subutex, also known as buprenorphine, is a medication for opioid use disorder that can cause a decrease in blood pressure in those who take it.

Learn more about the benefits of taking Subutex for opioid withdrawal

Causes Of Low Blood Pressure While Taking Subutex

Everyone reacts to medications like Subutex differently. Subutex is a central nervous system depressant and opioid-based medication that can affect blood pressure, breathing, and energy.

What can cause low blood pressure while taking Subutex:

  • depressed activity in the central nervous system
  • adrenal insufficiency (lack of hormone production)
  • allergic reaction
  • drug overdose

Adrenal Insufficiency From Subutex

Adrenal insufficiency can occur with chronic Subutex use. Common symptoms of this include low blood pressure, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Treatment for adrenal insufficiency while taking Subutex may involve hormone replacement, to make up for the lack of hormones naturally produced by the adrenal glands.

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Allergic Reaction To Subutex

Hypotension, or a loss of blood pressure, may be a sign of an allergic reaction to Subutex.

If someone develops an allergic reaction to Subutex, switching to an alternative medication for opioid addiction may be recommended.

Low Blood Pressure And Overdose

Low blood pressure can be a sign of a drug overdose. Subutex overdose can occur if combined with other drugs such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other opiates.

If someone has collapsed, become unresponsive, or is showing other signs of opioid overdose after taking Subutex, call 911 for emergency medical attention.

Learn More About Subutex Treatment

Subutex is commonly prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment program for opioid dependence and addiction. Although side effects can occur, serious side effects are uncommon.

For more information about the side effects of Subutex, or how to find Subutex treatment for yourself or a loved one, call our helpline today.

This page does not provide medical advice. See more

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Medically Reviewed by
Johnelle Smith, M.D. on July 14, 2021
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