Barriers to Buprenorphine Initiation in Patients Using Fentanyl.

ABSTRACT:

Importance

Anecdotal accounts suggest an increase in problems initiating buprenorphine (BUP) treatment among individuals using illicitly manufactured fentanyl. Limited empirical data illuminate these challenges.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of clinician-reported problems initiating BUP treatment among patients using fentanyl and describe clinical strategies used to overcome engagement challenges.

Design, setting, and participants

For this survey study, an online survey was pilot tested and refined with a convenience sample of physicians. The final survey included 96 items and took less than 15 minutes to complete. The survey queried patients' use of fentanyl, BUP induction problems (precipitated or prolonged withdrawal), strategies to overcome induction probl

SUBMITTER: Kawasaki SS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12771233 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature