Yale University

Buprenorphine maintenance and mu-opioid receptor availability in the treatment of opioid use disorder: Implications for clinical use and policy.

TitleBuprenorphine maintenance and mu-opioid receptor availability in the treatment of opioid use disorder: Implications for clinical use and policy.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2014
AuthorsGreenwald, Mark K., Sandra D. Comer, and David A. Fiellin
JournalDrug and alcohol dependence
Date Published2014 Aug 19
ISSN1879-0046
AbstractSublingual 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.
DOI10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2014.07.035
Alternate JournalDrug Alcohol Depend

External Links