Investigating how methadone and buprenorphine interact with other medications

Drug-Drug Interactions Involving Methadone and Buprenorphine

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10649570

This study is looking at how methadone and buprenorphine, two medications for treating opioid use disorder, interact with other medicines people might be taking, especially for those with other health issues, to help make treatment safer and more effective.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10649570 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the interactions between methadone and buprenorphine, which are commonly used to treat opioid use disorder, and other medications that patients may be taking. It aims to identify potential adverse effects that can arise when these drugs are used together, especially in individuals with additional health conditions. By examining factors such as the order of medication initiation and dosage, the study seeks to provide actionable insights that can improve patient safety and treatment outcomes. The research will involve real-world data to assess the health impacts of these drug combinations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder with methadone or buprenorphine who are also prescribed additional medications.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving treatment for opioid use disorder or who are not taking methadone or buprenorphine may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the safety and effectiveness of treatment for patients with opioid use disorder who are also taking other medications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has highlighted the risks of drug-drug interactions in patients using methadone and buprenorphine, but this study aims to fill significant gaps in understanding these interactions in real-world settings.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.