This JAMA Pediatrics Patient Page describes naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid poisoning or overdose.
Question: Are higher doses of buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder associated with improved retention in treatment when use of fentanyl (vs heroin) is more prevalent?
Findings: In this cohort study of 6499 patients initiating buprenorphine treatment between 2016 and 2020, those prescribed the recommended daily dose (16 mg) were at significantly greater risk of treatment discontinuation within 180 days than those prescribed a higher dose (24 mg).
Meaning: The results of this study suggest that the value of higher buprenorphine doses than currently recommended needs to be considered for improving retention in treatment.
