Abstract
Opioid maintenance treatment with oral methadone or sublingual buprenorphine is
the first-line treatment in opioid dependence. Three novel long-acting
buprenorphine formulations have been approved or will be available soon: for
subcutaneous weekly and monthly application, the depot formulations CAM 2038
(Buvidal®), the monthly depot formulation RBP-6000
(Sublocade™), and a 6-month buprenorphine implant (Probuphine™).
Clinical data available so far on the efficacy of these 3 medications are given,
and possible clinical implications are discussed.
Key words
opioid dependence - maintainance treatment - buprenorphine - depot - implant