Testing Positive For Norbuprenorphine

Our pharmacist answers the latest question regarding testing positive for norbuprenorphine.

Oct 24, 2017

Tammy asked

I have never taken Suboxone. How could I show positive for norbuprenorphine?

Answer

Suboxone contains two medications, buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is metabolized in the body and produces the metabolite norbuprenorphine, among others.

It seems unlikely that you would test positive for the metabolite norepinephrine without taking buprenorphine. Could you possibly taking another medication that contains buprenorphine? Below are some other medications that contain Buprenorphine:

  • Belbuca
  • Buprenex
  • Subutex
  • Probuphine
  • Butrans

There is of course always the possibility of a false positive, but again, that seems unlikely if you have never taken anything that contains buprenorphine. Most urine tests do specifically test for norbuprenorphine as opposed to the parent drug buprenorphine. This is to ensure people who have opioid dependence are taking the drug as prescribed.

If you have questions or concerns regarding the positive test, I would contact your doctor or the laboratory that administered the test.

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