Reconsidering the usefulness of using long-acting injectable buprenorphine as a tapering tool: a case report of delayed withdrawal months after last dose - Takeaways - MDSpire

Reconsidering the usefulness of using long-acting injectable buprenorphine as a tapering tool: a case report of delayed withdrawal months after last dose

  • By

  • Kareem Woods

  • Sophia Graham

  • Steven Dobscha

  • Christopher Blazes

  • July 6, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    Long-acting injectable buprenorphine (LAIB) may cause delayed withdrawal symptoms months after administration, complicating tapering strategies.

  • 2

    A case study of a 45-year-old man showed withdrawal symptoms four months after a single LAIB dose, indicating potential risks.

  • 3

    The patient experienced gastrointestinal upset, fatigue, mood-related symptoms, and anhedonia, attributed to delayed withdrawal.

  • 4

    Naltrexone administration worsened withdrawal symptoms, suggesting ongoing μ-opioid receptor activity at month four.

  • 5

    Comprehensive tapering protocols and extended monitoring are essential when using LAIB for buprenorphine discontinuation.

Original Source(s)

Reconsidering the usefulness of using long-acting injectable buprenorphine as a tapering tool: a case report of delayed withdrawal months after last dose

  • by Kareem Woods, Sophia Graham, Steven Dobscha, Christopher Blazes

  • July 6, 2026

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