The Relationship Between Primary Prescription Opioid and Buprenorphine-Naloxone Induction Outcomes in a Prescription Opioid Dependent Sample

Background and objectives: This analysis aims to: (1) compare induction experiences among participants who self-reported using one of the four most commonly reported POs, and (2) examine factors associated with difficult bup-nx induction. Our hypothesis, based on previous research and current guidelines, is that those on longer-acting opioids will have experienced more difficult inductions. Methods: The Prescription Opioid Addiction Treatment Study (POATS) was a multi-site, randomized clinical trial, using a two-phase adaptive treatment research design. This analysis examines bup-nx induction of participants who self-reported primary PO use of methadone, ER-oxycodone, IR-oxycodone, and hydrocodone (n = 569). Analyses examined characteristics associated with difficult induction, defined as increased withdrawal symptoms measured by the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) after the first bup-nx dose with higher scores denoting greater withdrawal symptoms/severity. Results: Contrary to our hypothesis, difficult induction experiences did not differ by primary PO type. Those who experienced a post-induction increase in COWS score had lower pre-dose COWS scores compared to those who did not experience a post-induction increase in COWS score (10.09 vs. 12.77, t(624) = -13.56, p < .001). Demographics characteristics, depression, and pain history did not predict a difficult induction. Conclusions and scientific significance: Difficult bup-nx inductions were not associated with participants' primary PO. Severity of withdrawal, measured with the COWS, was an important variable, reminding clinicians that bup-nx should not be commenced prior to evidence of moderate opioid withdrawal. These findings add to the evidence that with careful procedures, bup-nx can used with few difficulties in PO-dependent patients.