Drug use patterns and factors related to the use and discontinuation of medications for opioid use disorder in the age of fentanyl: findings from a mixed-methods study of people who use drugs

Original research

Hughto, Jaclyn M.W. et al

Release Date

2023

Geography

USA

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

Given the widespread presence of fentanyl in the drug supply, research is needed to understand who is at greatest risk for concurrent medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and drug use and the contexts shaping use and treatment discontinuation.

Findings/Key points

Many participants qualitatively reported reducing illegal opioid use while on MOUD, yet inadequate dosage, trauma, psychological cravings, and environmental triggers drove their continued drug use, which increased their risk of treatment discontinuation and overdose.

Design/methods

Surveys (N = 284) and interviews (N = 99)

doi.org

Keywords

About PWUD

Substitution/OAT

Transitions in care/treatment