Perspectives on Medication Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder in Adolescents: Results from a Provider Learning Series

Subst Use Misuse. 2023;58(1):160-162. doi: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2136493. Epub 2022 Nov 13.

Abstract

Background: Adolescent opioid use and associated opioid poisoning rates have risen dramatically in the United States, yet this group has disproportionally poorer access to evidence-based medication treatment for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Methods: A transdisciplinary cohort (N = 77) who attended a learning series focused on MOUD for adolescents were surveyed with the purpose of understanding the landscape of current adolescent MOUD practices in Washington State; and needs and barriers to providing care. Results: Results indicated that a higher percentage of prescriber participants endorsed support for MOUD for adolescents than nonprescriber participants. Lack of adjunctive support services (i.e., social work; mental health) were cited as the highest barriers to providing this care. Conclusions: We discuss the importance of continued transdisciplinary training and collaboration, as well as funding ancillary services to address barriers to providing adolescent MOUD.

Keywords: Adolescence; buprenorphine; opioid use disorder.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Analgesics, Opioid / therapeutic use
  • Buprenorphine*
  • Humans
  • Mental Health
  • Opiate Substitution Treatment
  • Opioid-Related Disorders* / drug therapy
  • Social Work

Substances

  • Analgesics, Opioid
  • Buprenorphine