The Impact of High-Potency Synthetic Opioids on Pharmacotherapies for Opioid Use Disorder: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background The clinical implications of high potency synthetic opioids (HPSO) on medications for opioid use disorder (MOUDs) are not well understood. Although pharmacological interactions are plausible, the clinical significance of such interaction has not been systematically elucidated. This scoping review investigates the relationship between HPSO exposure and various MOUD treatment outcomes. Methods We followed PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) for scoping reviews with extensive a priori search strategy of databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Cochrane. Results From 9149 studies, 34 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Synthesized data reveal several critical insights: First, there is a variable but high occurrence (38%–80%) of HPSO usage among individuals with MOUDs. Second, MOUDs are linked to a decreased risk of overdoses and deaths associated with HPSO. Third, HPSO consumption is correlated with the risk of precipitated withdrawal when starting buprenorphine. Fourth, low-dose buprenorphine is being recognized as one method to avoid moderate withdrawal symptoms prior to treatment. Lastly, significant gaps exist in human experimental data concerning the effects of HPSO on key factors critical for treating OUD-craving, withdrawal symptoms, and pain. Conclusions Current evidence supports MOUD safety and effectiveness in reducing nonmedical opioid use. Further research is needed to explore HPSO’s influence on the acute factors preceding nonmedical opioid use, such as cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and pain. This research could inform the optimization of MOUD dosing strategies. Achieving consensus and harmonizing data across clinical and research protocols could diminish variability, enhancing our understanding of HPSOs effect on MOUD treatment outcomes.