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If you are pregnant, it may not be safe to use Butrans (buprenorphine), a skin patch that delivers an opioid drug for continuous pain relief over seven days.
While Butrans hasn't been studied extensively in pregnancy, it is known that the active ingredient crosses the placenta and affects the developing fetus. It is particularly dangerous to use Butrans right before and up to delivery. If a woman does this, her newborn may experience breathing problems and require immediate medical care. If she has been using Butrans for some time, her baby may be born dependent on opioids and require care for possibly life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
If you are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant, and are using Butrans for chronic pain, talk to your doctor. Even if your doctor advises you to stay on Butrans, he or she may transition you to a shorter-acting pain reliever in the weeks before your due date.
While Butrans hasn't been studied extensively in pregnancy, it is known that the active ingredient crosses the placenta and affects the developing fetus. It is particularly dangerous to use Butrans right before and up to delivery. If a woman does this, her newborn may experience breathing problems and require immediate medical care. If she has been using Butrans for some time, her baby may be born dependent on opioids and require care for possibly life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
If you are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant, and are using Butrans for chronic pain, talk to your doctor. Even if your doctor advises you to stay on Butrans, he or she may transition you to a shorter-acting pain reliever in the weeks before your due date.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.