Extended-Release Buprenorphine Could Overcome Barriers to Medical Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder in At-Risk Populations

Authors

Scott A. Davis, University of North Carolina Eshelman School of PharmacyFollow
Genevieve Verrastro, Mountain Area Health Education CenterFollow
E Blake Fagan, Mountain Area Health Education CenterFollow

Keywords

buprenorphine; opiate substitution treatment; opioid-related disorders; opioid use disorder; OUD; narcotic antagonists; vulnerable populations

Disciplines

Substance Abuse and Addiction

Abstract

This article discusses how monthly extended-release buprenorphine can be used to improve the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). In particular, the use of monthly extended-release buprenorphine holds promise for patients who have recently been released from jail or prison and are battling OUD, those who are unstable and continue to use opioids illicitly, patients who are experiencing homelessness while also struggling with OUD, and those who are stable and want to be weaned off buprenorphine.

Recommended Citation

Davis, Scott A.; Verrastro, Genevieve; and Fagan, E Blake (2025) "Extended-Release Buprenorphine Could Overcome Barriers to Medical Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder in At-Risk Populations," HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine: Vol. 6: Iss. 1, Article 3.
DOI: 10.36518/2689-0216.1680
Available at: https://scholarlycommons.hcahealthcare.com/hcahealthcarejournal/vol6/iss1/3