Successful Treatment of Opioid Dependence withFlexible Doses of Injectable Prolonged Release Buprenorphine

Opioid dependence (OD) may be effectively treated with well-evidenced regimens including psychosocial and pharmacotherapeu-tic interventions. Treatment has benefits but also limitations including risk of diversion, impact of mandatory daily supervision,and stigma. An injectable prolonged release buprenorphine with flexible dose options has recently been approved by the EuropeanCommission and is available in the UK and other European Countries. Initial positive treatment experience in patients withdifferent clinical scenarios (patients with no recent treatment history, a transfer from oral methadone, and change from sublingualbuprenorphine tablets) provides evidence of the potential benefit in a range of situations for this therapeutic option. Adoption ofthe injectable form was clinically successful with no withdrawal signs, nor evidenceof use of other drugs. Patient reportedoutcomeswere positive including reduction in cravings and anxiety and improved attitude, relationships, and general mood.