New Study Highlights Effectiveness of Weekly and Monthly Buprenorphine Injections for Opioid Dependence, Especially in Fentanyl Users

The Opioid Crisis and Treatment Options

The opioid crisis continues to wreak havoc on communities worldwide, with fentanyl being one of the most dangerous substances contributing to high rates of overdose and dependence. Medical professionals and researchers are continuously seeking more effective treatment options to combat opioid dependence and mitigate its devastating effects.

About the Study

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open evaluated the efficacy of weekly and monthly subcutaneous (SC) buprenorphine injections compared to daily sublingual (SL) buprenorphine/naloxone in treating opioid dependence, specifically among patients using fentanyl.

The study involved a 24-week, randomized, double-blind, Phase 3 trial with 428 participants. Of these, 123 had evidence of fentanyl use at the start of the trial.

Findings of the Study

The analysis revealed that patients receiving SC buprenorphine injections had a higher mean percentage of fentanyl-negative urine samples (74%) compared to those receiving SL buprenorphine/naloxone (61.9%). This indicates a significant reduction in fentanyl use among those treated with SC injections.

Moreover, patients undergoing SC buprenorphine treatment reported reduced withdrawal symptoms and cravings, reflecting its potential efficacy in managing opioid dependence in fentanyl users.

Safety and Completion Rates

The safety profile of SC buprenorphine was found to be comparable to the known safety profile of the drug, with only mild to moderate injection site reactions reported. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the completion rates of the study between the fentanyl-positive and fentanyl-negative groups (60.2% vs. 56.7%, respectively).

Expert Opinions

Dr. Edward V. Nunes, Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University, highlighted that these findings are consistent with earlier Phase 3 data showing the effectiveness of extended-release buprenorphine in treating opioid dependence, especially among fentanyl users.

Fredrik Tiberg, President and CEO of Camurus, underscored the importance of this research, particularly in the context of the ongoing fentanyl crisis in the US.

About Buvidal

Buvidal, a buprenorphine prolonged-release solution for subcutaneous injection, is used for treating opioid dependence in adults and adolescents aged 16 and over. The product is available in various dosages administered either weekly or monthly, allowing treatment to be tailored to individual patient needs.

The administration of Buvidal is restricted to healthcare professionals, which helps increase treatment compliance and reduces the risks of diversion and misuse.

Availability and Approval

Buvidal is approved for the treatment of opioid dependence in the EU, UK, Switzerland, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries. In the US, it is marketed under the name Brixadi through Camurus' licensee, Braeburn.

About Camurus

Camurus, a biopharmaceutical company based in Sweden, focuses on developing and commercializing long-acting medications for severe and chronic conditions. Their innovative drug products are based on proprietary FluidCrystal® technology and extensive R&D expertise.

Their product pipeline includes treatments for dependence, pain, cancer, and endocrine diseases developed both in-house and in collaboration with international partners.