Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a complex and chronic condition that requires effective treatment strategies to ensure long-term recovery. There are several approaches to treating OUD, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine-naloxone, daily methadone from Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs), and cold-turkey (abstinence) methods. This blog post will compare the success rates of these treatments to help you understand the most effective options available.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Buprenorphine-Naloxone

Buprenorphine-naloxone (Suboxone) is a combination medication used in MAT to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is a partial opioid agonist, which means it activates opioid receptors in the brain but to a lesser extent than full agonists like heroin or methadone.

Success Rates:

  • Retention in Treatment: Studies have shown that patients on buprenorphine-naloxone are significantly more likely to remain in treatment compared to those receiving placebo. For example, one study found that patients on buprenorphine were 1.82 times more likely to stay in treatment1.
  • Reduction in Opioid Use: Buprenorphine-naloxone has been shown to reduce opioid use and improve overall treatment outcomes. Patients on buprenorphine had 14.2% fewer opioid-positive drug tests compared to those on placebo1.

Methadone from Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs)

Methadone is a full opioid agonist used in MAT and is dispensed daily at specialized OTPs. It has been used for decades to treat OUD and is highly effective when administered under medical supervision.

Success Rates:

  • Retention in Treatment: Methadone treatment has high retention rates. Patients on methadone are 4.44 times more likely to stay in treatment compared to those receiving placebo2.
  • Reduction in Opioid Use: Methadone significantly reduces opioid use, with patients showing 33% fewer opioid-positive drug tests compared to controls2.
  • Long-Term Outcomes: Methadone treatment improves long-term outcomes, including reduced risk of overdose, lower transmission rates of infectious diseases, and improved social functioning2.

Cold-Turkey (Abstinence) Methods

Cold-turkey or abstinence-based methods involve stopping opioid use abruptly without the aid of medications. This approach relies heavily on willpower and often includes support from counseling and peer support groups.

Success Rates:

  • Low Retention and High Relapse Rates: Cold-turkey methods have significantly lower success rates compared to MAT. Studies indicate that only about 17% of adults believe cold-turkey is an effective treatment option3. Relapse rates are high, and many patients struggle to maintain long-term abstinence without medication support.
  • Increased Risk of Overdose: Patients who attempt to quit opioids cold-turkey are at a higher risk of overdose if they relapse, as their tolerance levels decrease during periods of abstinence3.

Conclusion

When comparing the success rates of different treatments for Opioid Use Disorder, Medication-Assisted Treatment with buprenorphine-naloxone stands out as the most effective options. This treatment not only improves retention rates and reduces opioid use but also enhances overall quality of life and reduces the risk of overdose. Cold-turkey methods generally have lower success rates and higher risks of relapse and overdose and Methadone from an OTP has many barriers including a significant time commitment.

For individuals struggling with OUD, seeking treatment through MAT with buprenorphine-naloxone gives the best chance for long-term recovery. If you or a loved one needs help, please contact StartBupe Services at 704-246-4644 or go to our website at https://www.startbupe.com to discuss the most suitable treatment options for your situation.

1NIDA on Buprenorphine-Naloxone Effectiveness 

2NIDA on Methadone Effectiveness 3NORC on Cold-Turkey Methods

Reviewed by a medical professional