{"id":19174,"date":"2022-03-03T15:31:02","date_gmt":"2022-03-03T15:31:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/?p=19174"},"modified":"2022-03-04T15:51:54","modified_gmt":"2022-03-04T15:51:54","slug":"norspan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/medicines\/norspan\/","title":{"rendered":"Norspan &#8211; Buprenorphine uses, dose and side effects"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Norspan 5 micrograms \/ hour transdermal patch, Norspan 10 micrograms \/ hour transdermal patch, Norspan 15 micrograms \/ hour transdermal patch, Norspan 20 micrograms \/ hour transdermal patch, Norspan 25 micrograms \/ hour transdermal patch, Norspan 30 micrograms \/ hour transdermal patch, Norspan transdermal patch&nbsp;\/&nbsp;Norspan<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Norspan is and what it is used for<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan transdermal locks contain the active substance buprenorphine which belongs to a group of medicines called strong painkillers.&nbsp;It has been prescribed for you by your doctor to relieve moderate, prolonged pain that requires a strong painkiller.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan should not be used to relieve&nbsp;acute&nbsp;pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan transdermal&nbsp;patches&nbsp;act through the skin.&nbsp;After application, buprenorphine passes through the skin into the bloodstream.&nbsp;Each&nbsp;patch&nbsp;works for seven days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Buprenorphine found in Norspan may also be approved for the treatment of other conditions not mentioned in this product information.\u00a0Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professionals if you have any further questions, and always follow their instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What you need to know before using Norspan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do not use Norspan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>if you are allergic to buprenorphine or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6)<\/li><li>if you have breathing problems<\/li><li>if you are a drug addict<\/li><li>if you are taking a type of medicine called an&nbsp;MAOI&nbsp;(eg <a href=\"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/medicines\/tranylcypromine-glenmark\/\">tranylcypromine<\/a>, phenelzine, isocarboxazide, moclobemide and linezolid), or if you have taken this type of medicine in the last two weeks<\/li><li>if you suffer from&nbsp;myasthenia gravis&nbsp;(a special type of severe muscle weakness)<\/li><li>if you have previously suffered from withdrawal symptoms such as worry, anxiety, tremors or sweating when you quit alcohol.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan should not be used to treat symptoms when you stop taking a medicine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warnings and cautions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse before using Norspan:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>if you are being treated with antidepressants.&nbsp;If these medicines are used together with Norspan, this can lead to serotonergic syndrome, a condition that can be life-threatening (see &#8220;Other medicines and Norspan&#8221;).<\/li><li>if you suffer from seizures, spastic seizures or convulsions<\/li><li>if you suffer from breathing problems while sleeping (&nbsp;sleep apnea&nbsp;)<\/li><li>if you suffer from severe headaches or feel unwell after a head injury or increased pressure in the head (eg due to a brain injury).&nbsp;The patches can aggravate or hide the extent of a head injury.<\/li><li>if you feel dizzy or weak<\/li><li>if you have severe liver problems<\/li><li>if you or anyone in your family has ever abused or been addicted to alcohol, prescription drugs or illegal drugs (&#8220;abuse&#8221;)<\/li><li>if you smoke<\/li><li>if you have ever had problems with your mood (depression, anxiety or a personality disorder) or have been treated by a psychiatrist for another mental illness<\/li><li>if you have a fever, as this may lead to higher levels of the active substance being absorbed into your bloodstream than normal body temperature<\/li><li>if you suffer from constipation.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Sleep-related breathing problems<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norse sleep can cause sleep-related breathing problems such as&nbsp;sleep apnea&nbsp;(breathing pauses during sleep) and sleep-related&nbsp;hypoxia&nbsp;(low oxygen content in the blood).&nbsp;Symptoms may include pauses in breathing during sleep, waking up at night due to shortness of breath, difficulty staying asleep or excessive fatigue during the day.&nbsp;Contact your doctor if you or any other person observes these symptoms.&nbsp;Your doctor may consider reducing&nbsp;dose&nbsp;one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This drug can cause skin reactions at the application site which usually manifests as mild or moderate skin inflammation and the appearance usually includes\u00a0redness, swelling,\u00a0itching, rash, small blisters, and painful \/ burning sensation at the application site.\u00a0The cause is usually skin irritation and these reactions stop after the Norspan patch has been removed.\u00a0More serious allergic reactions may occur, such as runny blisters, which may spread outside the application site and not disappear quickly after Norspan removal.\u00a0Chronic\u00a0allergic reactions can lead to open sores, bleeding, sores, discoloration of the skin, and\u00a0infection.\u00a0Contact your doctor if you notice any of the above skin reactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This medicine may increase your pain sensitivity, especially in high\u00a0doses.\u00a0Tell your doctor if this happens.\u00a0It may be necessary to reduce your\u00a0dose\u00a0or change your medicine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have had any recent surgery, tell your doctor before using these\u00a0patches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Like other opioids,\u00a0Norspan\u00a0can affect your body&#8217;s normal production of\u00a0hormones, such as\u00a0cortisol\u00a0or sex hormones, especially if you have been taking high\u00a0doses\u00a0for a long time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Children and young people<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not give this medicine to patients under 18 years of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other medicines and Norspan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken, or might take any other medicines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some medicines can aggravate the&nbsp;side effects&nbsp;of Norspan and in some cases can cause very serious reactions.&nbsp;Do not take other medicines while taking Norspan without talking to a doctor first, especially:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Antidepressants such as moclobemide, tranylcypromine,&nbsp;citalopram&nbsp;, escitalopram,&nbsp;fluoxetine&nbsp;, fluvoxamine,&nbsp;paroxetine&nbsp;,&nbsp;sertraline&nbsp;, duloxetine,&nbsp;venlafaxine&nbsp;, amitriptyline, doxepine or trimipramine.&nbsp;These medicines can affect or be affected by Norspan and you may experience symptoms such as involuntary rhythmic muscle twitching, even in the muscles that control eye movements, agitation, hallucinations,&nbsp;coma&nbsp;, heavy sweating, tremors, enhanced reflexes, tense muscles and body temperature above 38 \u00b0 C.&nbsp;Contact your doctor if you experience such symptoms.<\/li><li>Norspan should not be taken in combination with so-called&nbsp;MAOIs&nbsp;(eg tranylcypromine, phenelzine, isocarboxazide, moclobemide and linezolid), or if you have taken this type of medicine in the last two weeks.<\/li><li>If you are taking medicines such as phenobarbital or&nbsp;phenytoin&nbsp;(medicines commonly used to treat seizures, spastic seizures or convulsions), carbamazepine (medicines used to treat seizures, spastic seizures or convulsions) or rifampicin (medicines used to treat&nbsp;tuberculosis&nbsp;) , the effects of Norspan may decrease.<\/li><li>Norse span can make some people feel sleepy, nauseous or weak or make them breathe slower or weaker.&nbsp;These&nbsp;side effects&nbsp;may get worse if other medicines that cause the same&nbsp;side effect&nbsp;are taken at the same time.&nbsp;These include medicines to treat pain, depression, anxiety, mental or mental disorders, sleeping pills, medicines for high&nbsp;blood pressure&nbsp;such as&nbsp;clonidine&nbsp;, other&nbsp;opioids&nbsp;(which may be found in painkillers or certain cough medicines, such as morphine, dextroproproxifene,&nbsp;codeine&nbsp;, dextromethorphan or noskapin),&nbsp;antihistamines&nbsp;that make you sleepy or narcotics like halothane.<\/li><li>Concomitant use of Norspan transdermal&nbsp;patches&nbsp;and sedatives such as&nbsp;benzodiazepines&nbsp;or similar drugs increases the risk of drowsiness, difficulty breathing (&nbsp;respiratory depression&nbsp;),&nbsp;coma&nbsp;and may be life-threatening.&nbsp;Due to this, concomitant use should only be considered when other treatment options are not possible.&nbsp;If your doctor prescribes Norspan&nbsp;transdermal patches&nbsp;at the same time as sedatives,&nbsp;dose themone and the treatment time is limited by the doctor.&nbsp;Tell your doctor if you are taking any sedatives and carefully follow your doctor&#8217;s dose recommendations.&nbsp;It may be helpful to inform friends or relatives about paying attention to the signs and symptoms described above.&nbsp;Contact a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Norspan with food, drink and alcohol<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Alcohol can aggravate some of the&nbsp;side effects&nbsp;and you may feel unwell if you drink alcohol while wearing Norspan.&nbsp;Drinking alcohol while wearing Norspan can also affect your ability to react.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not use Norspan if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby unless your doctor tells you to.\u00a0The doctor must have carefully considered the benefits and risks for both the mother and the child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Driving and using machines<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan can affect your ability to react so much that you do not react correctly or quickly enough in the event of unexpected or sudden events.&nbsp;This is especially true:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>at the beginning of treatment<\/li><li>if you are taking medicines for anxiety or as a sleeping pill<\/li><li>if you are given an increased&nbsp;dose&nbsp;.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are affected (eg feeling dizzy, drowsy, or have blurred vision), do not drive or use machines while using Norspan, or for 24 hours after removing the patch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You are responsible for assessing whether you are fit to drive a motor vehicle or perform work that requires sharpened vigilance.\u00a0One of the factors that can affect your ability in these respects is the use of drugs due to their effects and\/or\u00a0side effects.\u00a0Descriptions of these effects and\u00a0side effects\u00a0can be found in other sections.\u00a0Read all the information in this leaflet for guidance.\u00a0If you are not sure, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to use Norspan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you.&nbsp;Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Various forces at Norspan are available.&nbsp;Your doctor will decide which strength of Norspan is best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When patients start using Norspan, they often experience some nausea and vomiting (see section 4).\u00a0This usually resolves after the first week of treatment.\u00a0It is a good idea to book a follow-up appointment with your doctor a week or two after you start using Norspan to make sure you are taking the right\u00a0dose\u00a0and to deal with any\u00a0side effects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During treatment, your doctor may change the\u00a0patch\u00a0you use to a smaller or larger one if needed, or tell you to use a combination of up to two patches.\u00a0Do not divide the patch and do not use a higher\u00a0dose\u00a0than recommended.\u00a0<strong>You should not use more than two\u00a0patches\u00a0at a time up to a maximum total\u00a0dose\u00a0of 40 micrograms\/hour.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Adult and elderly patients<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unless your doctor has told you otherwise, attach a Norspan (according to the detailed description below) and change it every seven days, preferably at the same time of day.&nbsp;Your doctor may want to adjust the&nbsp;dose&nbsp;one after 3-7 days until the correct level of pain control has been found.&nbsp;If your doctor has told you to take one or more painkillers in combination with the patch, follow your doctor&#8217;s instructions carefully, otherwise you will not get the full benefit of Norspan treatment.&nbsp;The patch should be worn for three full days before&nbsp;dose&nbsp;one is increased, this is when the given&nbsp;dose&nbsp;one reaches full effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Patients under 18 years of age<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan should not be given to patients under 18 years of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Patients with kidney disease\/dialysis patients<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In patients with kidney disease, the&nbsp;dose&nbsp;does not need to be changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Patients with liver disease<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In patients with liver disease, the effects and duration of action of Norspan may be affected and your doctor will therefore follow you more closely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Before you apply Norspan<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Choose a skin area that is not irritated or damaged on the outside of the upper arm, the upper part of the chest, the upper part of the back or on the side of the chest.&nbsp;(See the pictures below).&nbsp;Ask for help if you can not attach the patch yourself.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/LIF\/product?userType=2&amp;nplId=20041207000343#\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/LIF\/product?userType=2&amp;nplId=20041207000343#\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/LIF\/product?userType=2&amp;nplId=20041207000343#\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><\/li><li>Norspan should be attached to a skin area where there is not much hair.&nbsp;If there are no suitable hairless skin areas, the hair should be cut off with scissors.&nbsp;Do not shave them.<\/li><li>Avoid skin that is red, irritated or has other damage such as large scars.<\/li><li>The area of \u200b\u200bskin you choose must be dry and clean.&nbsp;Wash with cold or lukewarm water if necessary.&nbsp;Do not use soap, alcohol, oil, lotions or other cleaning products.&nbsp;Wait until the skin is completely dry and cool after a hot bath or shower.&nbsp;Do not apply lotion, skin cream or ointment to the selected skin area.&nbsp;This may prevent the patch from sticking properly.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Application of the patch<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 1. Each&nbsp;patch&nbsp;is sealed in a protective bag.&nbsp;Just before use, cut the protective bag with scissors along the dotted line.&nbsp;Be careful not to damage the transdermal patches with scissors.&nbsp;Remove the patch.&nbsp;Do not use the patch unless the protective bag is intact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/LIF\/product?userType=2&amp;nplId=20041207000343#\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/imaging\/resources\/336475a1-bd25-4f72-aba4-89379d18c810\" alt=\"Step 1\" title=\"Step 1\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/LIF\/product?userType=2&amp;nplId=20041207000343#\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/imaging\/resources\/91182acd-353b-43af-be5b-fde39cee3b84\" alt=\"Step 1b\" title=\"Step 1b\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 2. The sticky side of the patch has a protective film.&nbsp;Carefully pull off&nbsp;<strong>one part<\/strong>&nbsp;of the protective film.&nbsp;Avoid touching the sticky side of the patch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/LIF\/product?userType=2&amp;nplId=20041207000343#\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/imaging\/resources\/3bebcf00-c0b9-4140-86a8-a14adaff26b2\" alt=\"Step 3\" title=\"Step 3\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 3. Attach the patch to the selected area and remove the remaining protective film.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 4. Press the patch against the skin with the palm of your hand for 30 seconds.&nbsp;Make sure that the entire patch is in close contact with the skin, especially around the edges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/LIF\/product?userType=2&amp;nplId=20041207000343#\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fass.se\/imaging\/resources\/c8018dc1-d3f9-42a2-84c4-d8ef996914bd\" alt=\"Step 4\" title=\"Step 4\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>To wear the patch<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You should wear the patch for seven days.&nbsp;If you have applied the patch correctly, there is a small risk that it will come off.&nbsp;If the edges of the patch begin to come loose, you can tape them down with suitable skin tape.&nbsp;You can swim, shower or swim with the patch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not expose the patch to strong heat (eg heating pads, electric blankets, heat lamps, saunas, hot baths, heated water beds, hot water bottles, etc.) as it may increase the body&#8217;s uptake of the active substance into the bloodstream.\u00a0The heat from the outside can also prevent the patch from sticking properly.\u00a0If you have a fever, it may affect the effects of Norspan (see section &#8220;Warnings and precautions&#8221; above.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the patch should come off before you need to change it, do not use the same&nbsp;patch&nbsp;again.&nbsp;Immediately insert a new one (see &#8220;Replacing the patch&#8221; below).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Replacing&nbsp;patches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Remove the old patch.<\/li><li>Fold it in half with the sticky sides inwards.<\/li><li>Open and take out a new&nbsp;patch&nbsp;.&nbsp;Use the empty bag to dispose of the old patch.&nbsp;Now throw the bag safely.<\/li><li>Used&nbsp;patches&nbsp;also contain active substances that can harm children or animals, so make sure that used&nbsp;patches&nbsp;are kept out of sight and reach of them.<\/li><li>Apply a new&nbsp;patch&nbsp;on another area of \u200b\u200bskin (see description above).&nbsp;A new&nbsp;patch&nbsp;should not be applied to the same skin area for 3-4 weeks.<\/li><li>Remember to always change your&nbsp;patch&nbsp;at the same time of day.&nbsp;It is important that you record the time of day.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration of treatment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your doctor will tell you how long you should be treated with Norspan.&nbsp;Do not stop treatment without consulting a doctor, as your pain may return and you may feel unwell (see also &#8220;If you stop using Norspan&#8221; below).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have the impression that the effect of Norspan is too weak or too strong, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you have used too much Norspan&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have ingested too much medicine or if e.g.\u00a0If a child has ingested the medicine by mistake, contact a doctor or hospital for risk assessment and advice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As soon as you discover that you have used more\u00a0patches\u00a0than you should, remove all\u00a0patches.\u00a0People who have had an overdose can feel very sleepy and feel unwell.\u00a0They may also have difficulty breathing or lose consciousness and may need emergency hospital care.\u00a0When you seek care, take this leaflet and any remaining\u00a0patches\u00a0with you and show them to your doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you forget to install a Norspan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Put on a band-aid\u00a0as soon as you remember.\u00a0Also write down the date, as your regular changeover day may now have changed.\u00a0If you are very late in changing\u00a0patches, your pain may return.\u00a0In this case, contact your doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not apply extra&nbsp;patches&nbsp;to compensate for forgetting to apply one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you stop using Norspan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you stop using Norspan too quickly or if you stop treatment, your pain may return.&nbsp;Ask your doctor if you want to stop treatment.&nbsp;Your doctor can tell you what can be done and if you can be treated with other medicines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some people may experience\u00a0side effects\u00a0when they have been using strong painkillers for a long time and then stop using them.\u00a0The risks of having\u00a0side effects\u00a0when you stop taking Norspan are very small.\u00a0However, tell your doctor if you feel upset, anxious, nervous, or shaky, if you become overactive, have difficulty sleeping, or have indigestion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The analgesic effect from Norspan remains for some time after the patch has been removed.&nbsp;Do not start taking another&nbsp;opioid&nbsp;(strong painkiller) until 24 hours after removing the patch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have any further questions on the use of this product, ask your doctor or pharmacist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Possible side effects<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Like all medicines, this medicine can cause\u00a0side effects, although not everybody gets them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Serious\u00a0side effects\u00a0when using Norspan are reminiscent of those observed for other strong painkillers, e.g.\u00a0difficulty breathing and low\u00a0blood pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This medicine can cause allergic reactions, however, severe allergic reactions are rare.\u00a0Remove the patch and contact your doctor immediately if you experience wheezing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.\u00a0So even if the eyelids, face, or lips swell up, and if you get a rash or\u00a0itching\u00a0&#8211; especially if it is spread all over the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Like all strong painkillers, there is a risk that you will become addicted to Norspan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In patients treated with Norspan, the following other&nbsp;adverse reactions&nbsp;have been reported:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Very common<\/strong>&nbsp;(may affect more than 1 user in 10)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Headache, dizziness, drowsiness<\/li><li>Constipation, nausea or vomiting<\/li><li>Skin itching<\/li><li>Skin rash,&nbsp;redness&nbsp;,&nbsp;itching&nbsp;,&nbsp;inflammation&nbsp;or swelling at the application site<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Common<\/strong>&nbsp;(may affect up to 1 in 10 people)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Loss of appetite<\/li><li>Confusion, depression, anxiety, insomnia, nervousness, tremors<\/li><li>Respiratory distress<\/li><li>Stomach pain or discomfort, diarrhea, indigestion,&nbsp;dry mouth<\/li><li>Sweating, rash<\/li><li>Fatigue, feeling of abnormal weakness, muscle weakness, swollen hands, ankles or feet<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Uncommon<\/strong>&nbsp;(may affect up to 1 in 100 people)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Restlessness,&nbsp;agitation&nbsp;, elation, hallucinations, nightmares, decreased sex drive, aggression.<\/li><li>Taste distortion, speech difficulties, decreased sensitivity to pain or touch, tingling or numbness, memory loss,&nbsp;migraine&nbsp;, fainting, problems with concentration and coordination<\/li><li>Dry eyes, blurred vision<\/li><li>Ringing or rumbling sound in the ears, feeling of dizziness or dizziness<\/li><li>High or low&nbsp;blood pressure&nbsp;, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat<\/li><li>Cough, hiccup, hissing (rustling, wheezing) breathing sounds<\/li><li>Gases in the stomach<\/li><li>Weight loss<\/li><li>Dry skin<\/li><li>Spasm&nbsp;you, pains<\/li><li>Urination disorders, difficulty starting to urinate and completely emptying the bladder<\/li><li>Fever<\/li><li>Increase in accidents (eg fall accidents)<\/li><li>Withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, anxiety, sweating or trembling when you stop using Norspan<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need to take a blood sample, remind your doctor that you are using Norspan.\u00a0This is important because Norspan can affect how the liver works and this, in turn, can affect the results of certain blood tests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Rare<\/strong>&nbsp;(may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Angina pectoris (severe chest pain that occurs with heart problems)<\/li><li>Psychotic disorder<\/li><li>Balance disorders<\/li><li>Facial or eyelid swelling, contraction of&nbsp;the&nbsp;pupils<\/li><li>Breathing difficulties, worsening of&nbsp;asthma&nbsp;, hyperventilation<\/li><li>A feeling of dullness, especially standing<\/li><li>Difficulty swallowing<\/li><li>Local allergic reactions with clear signs of&nbsp;inflammation&nbsp;(in which case treatment should be discontinued)<\/li><li>Swelling and irritation of the nose<\/li><li>Decreased&nbsp;erection&nbsp;, impaired sexual function<\/li><li>Reddening of the skin<\/li><li>Dehydration<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Very rare<\/strong>&nbsp;(may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Small muscle twitches<\/li><li>Mood swings<\/li><li>Ear pain<\/li><li>Blister-filled blisters<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Has been reported (&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>occurs in an unknown number of users)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Breathing problems during sleep (&nbsp;sleep apnea&nbsp;), see section 2 &#8220;Warnings and precautions&#8221;<\/li><li>Seizures, spastic seizures or convulsions<\/li><li>Inflammation&nbsp;of the intestinal wall.&nbsp;Symptoms may include fever, vomiting and abdominal pain or discomfort<\/li><li>Increased sensitivity to pain<\/li><li>Stomach pain or discomfort due to&nbsp;colic<\/li><li>Personality change<\/li><li>Withdrawal symptoms in newborns whose mothers have received Norspan during pregnancy.&nbsp;Symptoms may include screaming, irritability and restlessness, tremors, difficulty eating, sweating and not gaining weight.<\/li><li>Contact dermatitis&nbsp;(skin rash with&nbsp;inflammation&nbsp;that can give a burning sensation), discoloration of the skin.<\/li><li>A need to take increasing&nbsp;doses&nbsp;of this drug to achieve the same level of pain relief (tolerance).<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to store Norspan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton after EXP.&nbsp;The expiration date is the last day of the specified month.&nbsp;Leave unused&nbsp;patches&nbsp;at the pharmacy after the expiry date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not store above 25 \u00b0 C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not use the patch if the seal is broken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The used patch should be folded with the sticky side inwards and discarded safely so that children do not access the patch.\u00a0Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste.\u00a0Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required.\u00a0These measures will help to protect the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Contents of the pack and other information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Content declaration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The active substance is buprenorphine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan 5 micrograms\/hour transdermal patch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each\u00a0transdermal patch\u00a0contains 5 mg of buprenorphine in a patch size of 6.25 cm\u00a0<sup>2<\/sup>\u00a0and releases approximately 5 micrograms of buprenorphine per hour (over 7 days).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan 10 micrograms\/hour transdermal patch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each\u00a0transdermal patch\u00a0contains 10 mg of buprenorphine in a patch size of 12.5 cm\u00a0<sup>2<\/sup>\u00a0and releases approximately 10 micrograms of buprenorphine per hour (over 7 days).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan 15 micrograms\/hour transdermal patch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each\u00a0transdermal patch\u00a0contains 15 mg of buprenorphine in a patch size of 18.75 cm\u00a0<sup>2<\/sup>\u00a0and releases approximately 15 micrograms of buprenorphine per hour (over 7 days).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan 20 micrograms\/hour transdermal patch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each\u00a0transdermal patch\u00a0contains 20 mg of buprenorphine in a patch size of 25 cm\u00a0<sup>2<\/sup>\u00a0and releases approximately 20 micrograms of buprenorphine per hour (over 7 days).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan 25 micrograms\/hour transdermal patch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each\u00a0transdermal patch\u00a0contains 25 mg of buprenorphine in a patch size of 31.25 cm\u00a0<sup>2<\/sup>\u00a0and releases approximately 25 micrograms of buprenorphine per hour (over 7 days).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan 30 micrograms\/hour transdermal patch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each\u00a0transdermal patch\u00a0contains 30 mg of buprenorphine in a patch size of 37.5 cm\u00a0<sup>2<\/sup>\u00a0and releases approximately 30 micrograms of buprenorphine per hour (over 7 days).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan 40 micrograms\/hour transdermal patch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each\u00a0transdermal patch\u00a0contains 40 mg of buprenorphine in a patch size of 50 cm\u00a0<sup>2<\/sup>\u00a0and releases approximately 40 micrograms of buprenorphine per hour (over 7 days).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other ingredients are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Polyacrylate (Durotak 387-2051 &amp; 387-2054)<\/li><li>Levulinic acid<\/li><li>Oleyloleat<\/li><li>Povidon<\/li><li>Polyethylene terephthalate<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What the medicine looks like and contents of the pack<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Depot patches.\u00a0There are different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>5 micrograms\/hour: square, beige-colored\u00a0patch\u00a0with rounded corners marked Norspan 5 \u03bcg \/ h<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>10 micrograms\/hour: rectangular, beige-colored\u00a0patch\u00a0with rounded corners marked Norspan 10 \u03bcg \/ h<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>15 micrograms\/hour: rectangular, beige-colored\u00a0patch\u00a0with rounded corners marked Norspan 15 \u03bcg \/ h\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>20 micrograms\/hour: square, beige-colored\u00a0patch\u00a0with rounded corners marked Norspan 20 \u03bcg \/ h<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>25 micrograms\/hour: rectangular, beige-colored\u00a0patch\u00a0with rounded corners marked Norspan 25 \u03bcg \/ h<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>30 micrograms\/hour: rectangular, beige-colored\u00a0patch\u00a0with rounded corners marked Norspan 30 \u03bcg \/ h<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>40 micrograms\/hour: rectangular, beige-colored\u00a0patch\u00a0with rounded corners marked Norspan 40 \u03bcg \/ h<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Norspan is available in boxes containing 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, or 12\u00a0patches\u00a0(child-protective individually packaged).\u00a0Not all pack sizes may be marketed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Marketing Authorization Holder and Manufacturer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><\/strong><strong>Marketing Authorization&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>Holder<\/strong><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mundipharma AB<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>M\u00f6lndalsv\u00e4gen 30B<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>412 63 Gothenburg<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Manufacturer<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mundipharma DC BV<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Listening 16<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3832 RC Leusden<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Netherlands<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>or<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bard Pharmaceuticals Ltd.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cambridge Science Park<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Milton Road<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cambridge CB4 0GW<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>UK<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Norspan transdermal locks contain the active substance buprenorphine which belongs to a group of medicines called strong painkillers. It has been prescribed for you by your doctor to relieve moderate, prolonged pain that requires a strong painkiller.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[2200,15581],"tags":[19122,19127,3584,3587,19123,19126,8115,8114,19124,19125],"class_list":["post-19174","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-medicines","category-n","tag-benefits-of-buprenorphine","tag-benefits-of-norspan","tag-buprenorphine","tag-buprenorphine-side-effects","tag-norspan","tag-norspan-side-effects","tag-what-buprenorphine-is-used-for","tag-what-is-buprenorphine","tag-what-is-norspan","tag-what-norspan-is-used-for"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19174","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19174"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19174\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19212,"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19174\/revisions\/19212"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19174"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=19174"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zeepedia.com\/medical\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=19174"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}