Skip to main content

Can I take 20ug h transdermal and Busprione together?

Drug interaction guide

Combining these two medicines can make you feel very sleepy, dizzy, and confused. It may also cause breathing difficulties or slow down your breathing to a dangerous level. Your coordination and ability to think clearly will be significantly reduced.

Video picks for Drug interactions

Continue reading below

Why this happens

Both medicines act on the central nervous system (the brain). Buprenorphine is a strong opioid painkiller and buspirone is an anti-anxiety medicine. When taken together, their sedative effects add up, leading to much stronger suppression of the brain's control over breathing and alertness.

You must speak to your doctor before taking these medicines together. If your doctor confirms you should take both, they may need to adjust your doses. Do not drive or operate machinery while using these medicines. Seek medical help immediately if you feel unusually sleepy, have shallow breathing, or feel like you might faint. It is also vital to avoid or strictly limit alcohol, as it will make these dangerous side effects much worse.

Continue reading below

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.

Continue reading below

Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 14 Mar 2026 | Originally published
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.