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.
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.
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These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.
- Johns Hopkins Medicine — Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison’s Disease)
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/underactive-adrenal-glands--addisons-disease - Substance Abuse And Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — Buprenorphine
https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/buprenorphine - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) — SUBUTEX (buprenorphine sublingual tablets)
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/020732s018lbl.pdf
