New Insights Into Fentanyl Detox and Treatment

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has revealed that patients prescribed a higher dose of buprenorphine, specifically 24 mg, for the treatment of opioid use disorder are more likely to remain in treatment compared to those prescribed a lower dose of 16 mg. Led by Laura C. Chambers, PhD, MD, and her colleagues at Brown University School of Public Health, the study aimed to determine the effectiveness of different doses of buprenorphine in improving treatment retention.

Buprenorphine is a medication commonly used in the treatment of opioid use disorder as it helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to. However, the optimal dosage of buprenorphine has been a topic of debate among physicians.

The study analyzed data from 6,499 Rhode Island residents who initiated buprenorphine treatment between October 2016 and September 2020. The researchers found that within 180 days, 59% of patients prescribed 16 mg discontinued buprenorphine treatment, compared to 53% of patients prescribed 24 mg. Overall, patients prescribed a dose of 16 mg had a 20% greater chance of discontinuing treatment compared to those prescribed 24 mg.

These findings have important implications for healthcare providers and policymakers involved in the management of opioid use disorder. Dr. Wilson M. Compton, the deputy director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, emphasized the significance of this study in guiding practice and providing rigorous information.

The study’s findings also support the idea that a higher dose of buprenorphine may be necessary for patients who have used fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid responsible for a significant increase in unintentional overdose deaths. Some physicians have previously suggested that a dose of 16 mg may be inadequate to control withdrawal symptoms and cravings in these patients.

However, it is crucial to note that even with the higher dose of 24 mg, a significant number of patients still discontinued treatment or stopped prematurely, indicating the need for further research and improvements in treatment approaches for opioid use disorder.

Harmony Place Treatment Center acknowledges the importance of incorporating new findings into their treatment approach to provide the most effective and evidence-based care to their patients. They actively engage with the latest research on fentanyl detoxification and treatment, participate in conferences and training programs, and collaborate with other addiction medicine practitioners to stay updated on the latest advancements in the field.

Furthermore, Harmony Place constantly evaluates and improves their treatment protocols and procedures by reviewing new findings and integrating them into their approach. They embrace a holistic approach to addiction treatment and integrate evidence-based practices to address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of fentanyl addiction.

In conclusion, Harmony Place Treatment Center is committed to staying at the forefront of addiction medicine by incorporating new findings into their practice. Through ongoing professional development, collaboration, and continuous evaluation and improvement, they strive to provide effective and individualized care for individuals affected by fentanyl addiction. By staying updated on the latest research and consistently improving their treatment approaches, Harmony Place aims to make a significant impact in combating the fentanyl crisis and supporting individuals on their path to recovery.

By Akikur Reza Mohammad, MD
Former Associate Clinical Professor at USC, Practiced Addiction Medicine and Psychiatry for over 25 years.