Buprenorphine oral lyophilisate (Espranor®) in the substitution treatment of opioid dependence: a profile of its use

Abstract

Espranor® oral lyophilisate is a new rapid-dispersing formulation of buprenorphine that is indicated for the substitution treatment of opioid dependence. The effectiveness and tolerability of buprenorphine in this indication is well established. Espranor® is administrated by placing it on the tongue and, relative to sublingual formulations of buprenorphine, disperses more rapidly and has greater bioavailability. Because of its rapid dispersion, its use may be preferred over that of sublingual formulations by some patients. Clinics and pharmacies that dispense buprenorphine, including those in prisons and drug treatment centres, may also prefer the use of Espranor®, as the rapid oromucosal dispersion of the lyophilisate may reduce post-administration supervision time, and help prevent misuse and diversion of the drug.