A study in Massachusetts analyzed the trends in dispensing extended-release and non-extended-release buprenorphine from 2018 to 2023. The research revealed a significant increase in patients receiving extended-release buprenorphine, signaling improved access and acceptance among individuals with opioid use disorder. However, the uptake of non-extended-release buprenorphine decreased over the same period, prompting the need for further investigation into the reasons behind this trend. Efforts to expand the use of buprenorphine and other medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are crucial in addressing opioid use disorder in the U.S.

Source: JAMA Network Open