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Predictors and Processes of Early Buprenorphine Discontinuation: Study Protocol.
Vanessa C Somohano1,2,3, Alison C Eckhardt1, Olivia Reynolds1
1Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, OR, USA.
Substance Use & Addiction Journal
|June 10, 2026
Summary
Many patients discontinue buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder early. This study investigates the reasons for early discontinuation to develop targeted interventions for improved treatment retention.
Area of Science:
- Addiction Medicine
- Health Services Research
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Buprenorphine is a recommended treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD).
- Over 50% of patients discontinue buprenorphine before 180 days, limiting treatment effectiveness.
- Factors associated with early discontinuation are known, but the underlying reasons remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify modifiable barriers and participant experiences related to early buprenorphine discontinuation.
- To investigate provider- and system-level factors contributing to early discontinuation.
- To develop interventions addressing the causes of early buprenorphine discontinuation.
Main Methods:
- Convergent parallel mixed methods design.
- Prospective cohort study of 965 veterans initiating buprenorphine.
- Longitudinal quantitative surveys, electronic health record data, and qualitative interviews with patients and clinicians.
Main Results:
- This study is ongoing and results are not yet available.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the drivers of early buprenorphine discontinuation is crucial for improving treatment retention.
- This research will inform the development of targeted interventions to support sustained buprenorphine therapy for opioid use disorder.
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