The study of analgesics following single and repeated doses

The efficacy and safety of 0.3 mg buprenorphine on single and repeated intramuscular administration (every 4 to 8 hours as needed) were compared to those of 10 mg intramuscular morphine. Fifty adult patients experiencing moderate to severe postoperative pain were evaluated up to three days following surgery. Results showed that 0.3 mg buprenorphine was as effective as 10 mg morphine, whether given as a single dose or on a repeat-dose schedule. The patterns of analgesia were similar and without indication of increasing dosage requirements with time. Minor side effects encountered were brief and minimal, including such conditions as drowsiness, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, and nausea.