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Method for Successfully Inducting Individuals Who Use Illicit Fentanyl Onto Buprenorphine/Naloxone
Author(s) -
Antoine Denis,
Huhn Andrew S.,
Strain Eric C.,
Turner Gavin,
Jardot Jasmyne,
Hammond Alexis S.,
Dunn Kelly E.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
the american journal on addictions
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.997
H-Index - 76
eISSN - 1521-0391
pISSN - 1055-0496
DOI - 10.1111/ajad.13069
Subject(s) - buprenorphine , (+) naloxone , fentanyl , medicine , anesthesia , opioid , receptor
Background and Objectives Individuals exposed to fentanyl are at risk of precipitated withdrawal using typical buprenorphine/naloxone induction procedures. Methods This case series describes buprenorphine/naloxone inductions of four individuals who tested positive for fentanyl. Results Buprenorphine‐precipitated withdrawal was observed in two individuals who completed a conventional buprenorphine/naloxone induction strategy. Two more individuals completed a revised buprenorphine/naloxone induction strategy that did not precipitate withdrawal. Discussion and Conclusion Using multiple 2 mg doses of buprenorphine/naloxone in patients already in mild/moderate withdrawal improved outcomes. Scientific Significance Persons who use illicit fentanyl might be less likely to experience precipitated withdrawal from this revised buprenorphine/naloxone induction strategy. (Am J Addict 2021;30:83–87)