Maxwell Warns Locals About Danger Suboxone Poses to Children

The medication is used to treat opioid addictions and chronic pain

INDIANAPOLIS - State Sen. Randy Maxwell (R-Guilford) is warning residents of Senate District 43 about the potential dangers of Suboxone, a medication used to treat opioid addictions and chronic pain. 

"Earlier this year, a resident of Senate District 43 reached out and told me a heartbreaking story about 18-month-old Azana Trentman, who tragically passed away after ingesting Suboxone found in a backpack at a thrift store," Maxwell said. "Sweeteners are often added to the drug to reduce its poor taste, which makes it hard to distinguish from candy. However, it can be very dangerous if ingested by children." 

Suboxone, or buprenorphine, comes as a tablet or a film dissolved in the mouth. A "film" is a thin, rapidly dissolving strip that contains medication, and both are sweetened to improve taste. A small child who chews, licks or swallows even just part of a tablet may become unresponsive, stop breathing or even die because of the exposure.  

Common symptoms of buprenorphine poisoning in children are drowsiness, vomiting, slow breathing, increased heart rate and agitation. 

"I strongly encourage residents who may use Suboxone as a treatment for chronic pain or addiction to properly store and dispose of any medication to keep our children safe," Maxwell said.  

Anyone who believes their child has been exposed to buprenorphine should call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. For more information or help identifying medication, visit webpoisoncontrol.org. 

Maxwell encourages residents of Senate District 43 to contact him with any questions or comments they may have. Maxwell can be reached by filling out a "Contact Me" form online at www.IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Maxwell or by phone at 800-382-9467.