suboxone and sublingual narcan

[9309]

Suboxone is taken sl. The idea is that the narcan will not be effective if taken sl, alowing the bupenorhine into the system.. If crushed and injected, the narcan will bind with the receptors instead, limiting abuse potential.

The naloxone component in SUBOXONE is included to help discourage diversion and misuse. Naloxone has very limited bioavailability when administered sublingually, as intended. However, if SUBOXONE is crushed and injected, the naloxone will precipitate opioid withdrawal. In the absence of an opioid, the antagonist has no effect.

http://www.suboxone.com/hcp/suboxone/

So- here is my question:

Narcan can be given sublingually.

http://groups.msn.com/paramedicemtgathering/medicaltopics.msnw?action=get_message&mview=0&ID_Message=6687&LastModified=4675677423197787354

I have heard other references to sublingual administration of narcan, but can find nothing documented anywhere.

SO- Is Narcan effective SL?

9309

[Altra, BSN, RN]

I read the links you provided ... interesting reading as EMS services in my region do not, to my knowledge, utilize the nasal spray form of Narcan. It's IV, IM, IO or via ETT.

I have not seen Narcan in its powder form - all prefilled injection syringes where I am. I'm trying to get a mental picture of the practical use of the powder for SL administration in a situation where Narcan needs to be administered immediately.

[northshore08]

Thsi is the first time I have heard of suboxone; thanks for the link!

I have never seen narcan given in any way other than ivp, and have never seen any other form of narcan.

I must lead a sheltered life.....

[needsmore$]

Thsi is the first time I have heard of suboxone; thanks for the link!

I have never seen narcan given in any way other than ivp, and have never seen any other form of narcan.

I must lead a sheltered life.....

You and me both! :) Thanks for the articles up there!