Buprenorphine Patches
Indication
Pain, in patients who are unable to take or tolerate oral medicine, (including soluble tablets and liquids).
Green (Restricted)
Brand:
Nice TA:
Commissioning responsibility:
CCG
PbR excluded:
No
BNF chapter:
Central nervous system
Background
Transdermal preparations lack the flexibility required when treating patients with fluctuating or uncontrolled pain. Use should be reserved for patients with stable pain who are unable to take or tolerate oral medicines. Buprenorphine patches are several times more expensive than equivalent doses of oral analgesics, and inappropriate use of transdermal preparations has cost implications for commissioners. It is recommended that the reason for using a patch is documented on initiation and if appropriate patients are switched to oral formulations at the earliest opportunity.
Recommendation
LSCMMG Recommendation:
Green (Restricted)
Reason for decision:
Suitable for initiation in primary care in line with restrictions
Supporting documents: