Low Dose Initiation of Buprenorphine: A Narrative Review and Practical Approach

Shawn M Cohen1, Melissa B Weimer, Ximena A Levander

  • 1From the Program in Addiction Medicine, Section of General Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine (SMC, MBW, JMT, KLM); Division of General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics, Addiction Medicine Section, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States (XAL); Department of Pharmacy, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA (AMP).

Summary

Low dose buprenorphine initiation offers a way to start treatment without withdrawal. This method gradually increases the dose, allowing continued use of other opioids and expanding access to care.

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