About This Article: Zoom Testing has supplied drug testing kits to UK customers for nearly 20 years. This guide draws on our experience helping thousands of people understand drug testing, workplace compliance, and buprenorphine detection. Always follow current UK legislation regarding drug testing.
Buprenorphine (trade name Subutex®) is an opioid drug that is similar to heroin. Subutex is also known by the street names ‘subbies’, ‘temmies’ and ‘bupe’. Understanding how buprenorphine is detected through drug testing is essential for employers, healthcare providers, and individuals undergoing workplace or medical screening.
Quick Navigation:
What is Buprenorphine?
Buprenorphine is mainly used today as a substitute for heroin, in an attempt to relieve some of the problems associated with heroin addiction. As a partial opioid agonist, buprenorphine works differently from full opioids like heroin, methadone and oxycodone. This unique pharmacological profile makes it a valuable tool in opioid addiction treatment programmes across the UK.
Buprenorphine is different from methadone and heroin because it does not have such a strong effect on the brain. In most cases, methadone tends to work better than buprenorphine in helping people stay off heroin. However, buprenorphine is still a good treatment and some people prefer it because:
- For some people, buprenorphine allows them to feel more ‘clear-headed’ than when using methadone
- Some people have problems tolerating methadone
- Coming off buprenorphine tends to be easier than with methadone. For some users, methadone is taken long-term for ‘maintenance’. When they decide to detox, they then switch to buprenorphine
- Buprenorphine is recognised as safer if taken in overdose than methadone
How is Buprenorphine Taken?
Buprenorphine is a tablet which you place under your tongue. The tablet dissolves over 3–7 minutes and is absorbed directly into the bloodstream from your mouth. Importantly, the tablets do not work if you swallow them into the stomach – this sublingual (under the tongue) administration is essential for the medication to be effective. It is usually prescribed as a once-daily dose.
What Are the Side Effects and Long-term Effects of Buprenorphine?
Short-term Side Effects
Buprenorphine can cause unexpected drops in blood pressure, which could result in feeling faint or fainting if you get up too quickly from a lying or sitting position. Other common side effects include headaches, insomnia, nausea and constipation. Additionally, other street drugs such as benzodiazepines (‘benzos’), and alcohol can significantly affect buprenorphine’s effectiveness and safety. It is essential not to take any other drugs alongside buprenorphine, and consumption of alcohol should be minimised or avoided.
Long-term Effects and Addiction Potential
Buprenorphine is addictive, and overdose can occur if taken with other medication or with alcohol. Long-term use carries risks of physical dependence, though buprenorphine’s pharmacological profile generally results in less severe dependence than full opioid agonists. Individuals taking buprenorphine should be under medical supervision and follow their prescribed treatment plan carefully.
What Class of Drug Is Buprenorphine? Legal Classification in the UK
In the UK, buprenorphine is classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This classification reflects its recognised medical utility whilst acknowledging its potential for misuse.
Legal Penalties in the UK:
- Possession: Maximum penalty of 2 years in jail plus an unlimited fine
- Supplying or intent to supply: Maximum penalty of 14 years in jail plus an unlimited fine
For current guidance on UK drug legislation, refer to Gov.uk drug offences guidance.
Does Buprenorphine Show Up on an Employment Drug Test?
A few years ago, it was uncommon for buprenorphine to be screened for as part of employment drug tests. However, this has changed significantly. Employers are now much more aware of the limitations of basic screening panels. They know that screening for just 4 or 5 commonly used drugs is no longer sufficient, especially with the rise in popularity and use of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) and prescription opioid misuse.
A typical modern employer drug test now screens for up to 12–18 drugs, and buprenorphine is frequently included in these comprehensive panels. ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) recommends that employers clarify their testing policies, particularly regarding prescription medications, to distinguish between legitimate medical use and misuse.
Important Note: If you are taking buprenorphine as a prescribed medication, inform your employer and occupational health before a drug test. Legitimate prescription use is protected, but transparency is essential to avoid misunderstandings.
Will Buprenorphine Be Detected by an Opiates Drug Test Kit?
Buprenorphine will NOT be detected by a standard opiates drug test kit.
The usual urine tests used to screen for heroin, oxycodone, methadone and other full opioid agonists detect a specific metabolite that is different to that found with buprenorphine. This is because buprenorphine, as a partial opioid agonist, has a distinct metabolic pathway. Patients who are maintained on buprenorphine alone will not show a positive result using standard opiates tests.
A specific drug test for buprenorphine will be needed if you want to test for the drug. This is an important distinction for individuals in addiction treatment and for employers designing comprehensive drug screening programmes.
Buprenorphine Drug Test Kits
Buprenorphine can be detected by a single drug test specifically designed for buprenorphine. It can also be detected on several larger, multi-panel drug tests.
At Zoom Testing, we offer a range of options for comprehensive opioid and multi-drug screening:
- 8 Panel Drug Test with Integrated Cup – detects buprenorphine alongside 7 other substances
- 10 Panel Drug Test – comprehensive screening
- 11 Panel Drug Test – extended substance coverage
- 12 Panel Drug Test – comprehensive workplace standard
Why Choose Our Multi-Drug Testing Kits?
- Accurate & Reliable: FDA-cleared tests with 99% accuracy for buprenorphine and other opioids
- Fast Results: Results in 5 minutes – ideal for workplace screening
- Easy to Use: Simple urine sample collection with integrated cups or dip cards
- Discreet Delivery: Plain packaging, rapid UK delivery
- Professional Support: Expert guidance available if you have questions about results
How Long Can Buprenorphine Be Detected For?
A comprehensive drug screen will detect buprenorphine within 2 to 5 hours of use. However, the length of time for which the drug stays in your system can vary significantly depending on individual factors.
Standard Detection Window
Buprenorphine is usually no longer detectable after 2–3 days, though this can be dose-dependent. This timeframe applies to most individuals under standard clinical or occupational screening protocols.
Extended Detection Cases
Occasionally, buprenorphine has been positively identified up to 4 days after ingestion. This is because of its long half-life (24–60 hours) and slow onset. Factors that may extend detection include:
- Higher doses or frequent use
- Individual metabolic variation
- Body mass and fat storage (opioids bind to fat tissue)
- Liver function and overall health status
- Use of other medications that interact with buprenorphine metabolism
What Is the Cut-off Level for Buprenorphine?
At present, most urine drug tests for buprenorphine have a set detection level (cut-off threshold) of 10 ng/ml (nanograms per millilitre). This standardised level ensures consistent, reliable results across different testing facilities and helps distinguish between legitimate use and potential misuse.
Detecting Buprenorphine with an 18 Panel Urine Drug Test
Buprenorphine is one of many substances that can be detected with the comprehensive 18 Panel Drug Test with Integrated Cup from Zoom Testing. This cutting-edge urine drug test kit not only identifies buprenorphine but also screens for a wide range of drugs, including the ever-present concerns of cannabis, cocaine, methamphetamine, and opiates like heroin.
Furthermore, it detects substances like fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid that has been a major contributor to the opioid crisis, and ketamine, a dissociative anaesthetic sometimes abused as a club drug.
What sets this drug test apart is its convenience and reliability. With its integrated cup design and temperature test strip, the 18 Panel Drug Test eliminates the need for messy handling and ensures sample integrity. Zoom Testing has meticulously crafted this kit to provide accurate results within minutes, making it an invaluable tool for employers, healthcare providers, and anyone seeking comprehensive drug screening.
The breadth of substances covered by this test underscores the importance of vigilance in addressing substance abuse across various sectors. By offering a comprehensive solution that screens for a vast array of drugs, Zoom Testing empowers organisations and individuals to make informed decisions and promote a safer, healthier environment.
What Our Customers Say
Our multi-drug testing kits have been trusted by thousands of customers across the UK for accuracy, reliability, and discreet service. Here’s what recent customers have said:
“I bought these to test my PCV drivers – they worked very well. Delivery was very fast and they were very quick at replying to any queries when I emailed. Will be using them again in the future if needed and are highly recommended.”
– Kayleigh R., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“These tests were spot on with my son, worked well and very easy to do.”
– Emma P., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Very simple and straightforward test to use. The test was shipped quickly to my home address in a plain jiffy bag, so nobody knew what was inside. I have peace of mind knowing the results are reliable.”
– Julian R., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Support and Harm Reduction Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid use or addiction, professional support and harm reduction services are available across the UK. These organisations provide confidential advice, treatment options, and practical support:
- Talk to Frank – UK’s independent drug information service. Friendly, confidential advice on drugs and addiction.
- Release – UK drugs law and policy organisation providing legal advice and support for people affected by drug use.
- Narcotics Anonymous – Self-help support groups for people recovering from drug addiction.
- UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime) – International resource for evidence-based information on addiction treatment and recovery.
Buprenorphine is an effective, evidence-based treatment for opioid addiction when used under medical supervision. If you’re considering treatment or have concerns about substance use, speak with your GP or local addiction service to explore options tailored to your needs.
About the Author
Anthony Cunningham – Drug Testing Expert & Editor
Anthony Cunningham, BA (Hons), MA, is a UK-based drug testing expert and editor with over 20 years’ experience running Zoom Testing, a trusted source for accurate drug testing kits and testing guidance. He creates clear, evidence-based articles using UK legislation, workplace compliance standards, and harm reduction best practices. Where possible, content is reviewed by testing specialists and compliance professionals to enhance accuracy and reliability, helping readers make informed testing decisions.
Originally published: 2022 | Last updated: November 15, 2025
