Buprenorphine Substitution as a Tapering Strategy for Opioid Discontinuation in Patients with Chronic Pain: A Nonrandomized and Proof of Concept Study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Long-term use (≥ 3 months) of opioids for chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) shows limited benefit and often leads to dependence, especially when tapered too quickly. Standard opioid discontinuation typically involves gradual dose reduction, yet many patients fail to complete it. Meta-analyses show buprenorphine reduces withdrawal severity, increases treatment retention and completion rates, and facilitates analgesia and smoother transitions in patients with chronic pain, with low adverse effects and high initiation success.

Methods

This single-center, prospective, nonrandomized proof-of-concept study assessed the efficacy of an outpatient buprenorphine-based discontinuation strategy in patients with CNCP and opioid dependence who had failed standard tapering. Partic

SUBMITTER: Bertin C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12634938 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature