Understanding why patients stop buprenorphine treatment early

Predictors and Processes of Early Buprenorphine Discontinuation

NIH-funded research Portland VA Medical Center · NIH-10989884

This study is looking into why some people stop taking buprenorphine for opioid addiction too soon, focusing on different factors like who they are, their doctors, and any challenges they face in getting care, to help find ways to keep more people in treatment longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPortland VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10989884 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons behind the early discontinuation of buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder. It aims to explore various factors that may contribute to this issue, including patient demographics, provider influences, and systemic barriers to care. By gathering data from a diverse group of patients, including those from rural areas and underrepresented communities, the study seeks to identify key predictors and processes that lead to early treatment cessation. The findings could help improve treatment retention and outcomes for individuals struggling with opioid addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals currently receiving buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder, particularly those who may be at risk of discontinuation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently undergoing buprenorphine treatment or those with other forms of addiction treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for keeping patients engaged in buprenorphine treatment, ultimately reducing the risks associated with early discontinuation.

How similar studies have performed: While some prior research has identified predictors of treatment discontinuation, this study's comprehensive approach and focus on patient perspectives represent a novel exploration in this area.

Where this research is happening

Portland, 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.
Conditions addictive disorder
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.