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Investigating Drivers of Antireward in Addiction Behavior with Anatomically Specific Single-Cell Gene Expression Methods
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Immunotherapeutic strategies for treating opioid use disorder and overdose

Rachel Luba1, Suky Martinez1, Jermaine Jones1

  • 1New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University Irving Medical Center Division on Substance Use Disorders, New York, NY, USA.

Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
|January 25, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Novel vaccines for opioid use disorder (OUD) show promise in complementing existing treatments and offering overdose protection. These OUD vaccines may overcome previous limitations, improving treatment options.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Immunology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Opioid use disorder (OUD) and overdose are critical public health issues requiring new treatment strategies.
  • Existing medications for OUD (MOUD) are effective but face challenges in treatment initiation and retention.
  • Novel therapeutic approaches are needed to complement current OUD treatments.

Approach:

  • This review synthesizes findings from preclinical and clinical trials of vaccines for substance use disorders (SUD), focusing on OUD.
  • It examines the mechanisms of action and efficacy of SUD vaccines.
  • The review includes data from literature searches and clinical trial registries.

Key Points:

  • Vaccines targeting opioid use disorder are being developed to offer protection against overdose and act as adjuncts to existing therapies.
  • Preclinical data for SUD vaccines are promising, with ongoing efforts to address previous development challenges.
  • Opioid vaccines present potential clinical advantages that may outweigh disadvantages.

Conclusions:

  • Opioid vaccines represent a hopeful advancement in the treatment of opioid use disorder.
  • Careful development can lead to effective vaccines that improve patient outcomes.
  • Further research and clinical trials are essential to realize the full potential of OUD vaccines.
Keywords:
CocaineVaccinesfentanylheroinimmunotherapiesnicotineopioid use disorderopioidsoxycodonesubstance use disorders

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