Abstract
Buprenorphine, a partial mu-opioid agonist, is a critical medication in treating opioid use disorder (OUD) and chronic pain. It was initially developed in the 1960s, then approved for pain management in the 1980s. However, over the past two decades, buprenorphine’s use has expanded to OUD treatment, demonstrating improved patient outcomes, enhanced treatment retention, and reduced opioid use. Its longer half-life allows for less frequent dosing and greater adherence compared to full agonists. Buprenorphine also has a more favorable safety profile compared to methadone, which results in lower risks of respiratory depression and overdose.
Despite its efficacy, buprenorphine remains underused due to provider unfamiliarity and regulatory barriers. However, recent advances in formulation, including transdermal patches, offer improved safety and adherence. Buprenorphine’s potential extends beyond OUD treatment, with research exploring its role in managing co-occurring mental health disorders and chronic pain. Future developments, including microdosing protocols and combination therapies, hold promise for expanding its use.
Included in
Utilizing Buprenorphine in Patients with Opioid Use Disorder
Buprenorphine, a partial mu-opioid agonist, is a critical medication in treating opioid use disorder (OUD) and chronic pain. It was initially developed in the 1960s, then approved for pain management in the 1980s. However, over the past two decades, buprenorphine’s use has expanded to OUD treatment, demonstrating improved patient outcomes, enhanced treatment retention, and reduced opioid use. Its longer half-life allows for less frequent dosing and greater adherence compared to full agonists. Buprenorphine also has a more favorable safety profile compared to methadone, which results in lower risks of respiratory depression and overdose.
Despite its efficacy, buprenorphine remains underused due to provider unfamiliarity and regulatory barriers. However, recent advances in formulation, including transdermal patches, offer improved safety and adherence. Buprenorphine’s potential extends beyond OUD treatment, with research exploring its role in managing co-occurring mental health disorders and chronic pain. Future developments, including microdosing protocols and combination therapies, hold promise for expanding its use.