What medications are most often used to treat patients with opioid use disorder?

Methadone and buprenorphine are considered the cornerstone medications used in the treatment of opioid use disorder. Both of these medications work by activating the opioid receptors in the brain, but they do so in different ways which can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.

Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that helps individuals stabilize and reduce their use of illicit opioids. It effectively reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing individuals to engage in recovery-oriented activities. It's typically dispensed in specialized clinics and is under strict regulation.

Buprenorphine, on the other hand, is a partial agonist, meaning it stimulates the opioid receptors but to a much lesser degree than full agonists like methadone. This property provides relief from withdrawal and cravings without producing the same level of euphoria, which minimizes the potential for misuse. Buprenorphine can also be prescribed in outpatient settings, making it more accessible for many individuals.

The other medications listed do not serve the same role in treating opioid use disorder. Codeine and morphine are traditional opioids used primarily for pain management and are not effective for the specific treatment of opioid dependency. Hydrocodone and oxycodone, while also opioids, are primarily used for pain relief