34th AM (2023) - Poster Session-Use of Buprenorphine in Adolescents

Use of Buprenorphine in Adolescents

Pdf Summary

The United States has seen a significant increase in drug overdose deaths over the past decade, with opioids being the main cause. Opioid use disorders are common among adolescents, with a high risk of morbidity and mortality. In this case series, two adolescent patients with opioid use disorder were successfully treated with Sublocade injection.<br /><br />The use of prescription opioids for chronic non-cancer pain has contributed to the increase in overdose deaths. In 2015, over 63% of lethal overdoses involved opioids. While most overdoses occur in adults, there were 772 adolescents between the ages of 15 and 19 who died from a drug overdose in 2015.<br /><br />Substance use disorders often begin in adolescence, with symptoms appearing as early as 18 years old. Pediatricians need to stay updated on this public health emergency that affects adolescents. The case series presented two adolescent patients who were successfully treated with Sublocade injection.<br /><br />The use of Sublocade injection in adolescents with opioid use disorder has shown efficacy. However, more extensive randomized controlled trials are needed to establish a final consensus on its effectiveness in this population.<br /><br />Medication is an important part of the treatment plan for adolescents with opioid use disorders as it reduces overdose mortality. Long-acting Buprenorphine injection has shown success in these cases, with patients experiencing significant improvement and complete abstinence from opioid use.<br /><br />All providers should consider discussing the option of long-acting Buprenorphine injection for the treatment of opioid use disorder in adolescents. This treatment can help address the opioid epidemic and reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with opioid misuse among youth.

Keywords

United States

drug overdose deaths

opioids

adolescents

opioid use disorder

Sublocade injection

prescription opioids

Substance use disorders

Buprenorphine injection

providers

	The content on this site is intended solely to inform and educate medical professionals. This site shall not be used for medical advice and is not a substitute for the advice or treatment of a qualified medical professional.		400 Massasoit Avenue Suite 307 East Providence, RI 02914 cmecpd@aaap.org	About Advocacy Membership Fellowship Education and Resources Training Events