Microdosing Buprenorphine: A New Approach to Opiate Use Disorder
Bottom line: we don't have huge studies on this method, but we do have some data that microdosing buprenorphine is effective as an induction strategy.
Ever wondered if there's a way to start buprenorphine treatment without the dreaded withdrawal symptoms? In this episode of 'Addiction in Emergency Medicine and Acute Care', Dr. Casey Grover dives into the innovative practice of microdosing buprenorphine. This method is gaining attention as a potentially game-changing induction strategy for opiate use disorder, especially for those using illicit fentanyl. Dr. Grover breaks down how microdosing works, explaining that it involves gradually increasing the buprenorphine dose while decreasing the full agonist opioid.
The aim? To transition patients smoothly without triggering withdrawal. You'll hear about different protocols like the Bernese method and the buprenorphine transdermal patch method, along with real patient cases where microdosing has been successfully implemented. While data on microdosing is still emerging, the results so far are promising. Dr. Grover shares both the benefits and limitations of this approach, offering a comprehensive overview that's perfect for healthcare professionals eager to improve patient care in acute settings.
Whether you're on the front lines of emergency medicine or simply curious about new addiction treatments, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn how microdosing buprenorphine could revolutionize the way we treat opiate use disorder.