| Title | Buprenorphine maintenance and mu-opioid receptor availability in the treatment of opioid use disorder: Implications for clinical use and policy. |
| Publication Type | Journal Article |
| Year of Publication | 2014 |
| Authors | Greenwald, Mark K., Sandra D. Comer, and David A. Fiellin |
| Journal | Drug and alcohol dependence |
| Date Published | 2014 Aug 19 |
| ISSN | 1879-0046 |
| Abstract | Sublingual formulations of buprenorphine (BUP) and BUP/naloxone have well-established pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles, and are safe and effective for treating opioid use disorder. Since approvals of these formulations, their clinical use has increased. Yet, questions have arisen as to how BUP binding to mu-opioid receptors (μORs), the neurobiological target for this medication, relate to its clinical application. BUP produces dose- and time-related alterations of μOR availability but some clinicians express concern about whether doses higher than those needed to prevent opioid withdrawal symptoms are warranted, and policymakers consider limiting reimbursement for certain BUP dosing regimens. |
| DOI | 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2014.07.035 |
| Alternate Journal | Drug Alcohol Depend |
