Buprenorphine

Also known as

• Subutex, tec, su su

Description

• Subutex comes in 2 mg and 8 mg pills. Its active ingredient is Buprenorphine Hydrochloride, which is a semi-synthetic opioid derivative closely related to Morphine.
• Subutex is taken sublingually i.e. to place it under the tongue until it dissolves. However, abusers mixed it with other prescription drugs and it is injected for a greater 'high'.

Effects and Dangers

• Sedation
• Light-headedness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Vomiting

Withdrawal Symptoms

• Delirium tremens, clouding of consciousness and severe tremors or seizures
• Anxiety, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
• Abdominal cramps, muscle and joint pains
• Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)

Medical complications arising from intravenous abuse of Subutex especially when mixed with other prescription drugs:

• Clogging of veins leading to gangrene.
• Breathing problems (respiratory depression) which can lead to death.

The sharing of needles can also cause the spread of Hepatitis B and C and the HIV virus if the needles are contaminated.

Penalties

Possession or consumption of Buprenorphine:

• Up to 10 years of imprisonment or S$20,000 fine or BOTH

Illegal traffic of Buprenorphine:

• Up to 20 years of imprisonment and 15 strokes of the cane

Illegal import or export of Buprenorphine:

• Up to 30 years of imprisonment or imprisonment for life and 15 strokes of the cane