Buprenorphine is a medication primarily used to treat opioid addiction and manage pain. It is a partial agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain but to a lesser extent than full agonists like morphine or heroin. This property helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same intense high. In addition to its use in addiction treatment, buprenorphine can also be prescribed for chronic pain management. It is often combined with naloxone to prevent misuse, as naloxone can block the effects of opioids if the medication is misused.