Accettabilità dei pazienti e sostenibilità economica della buprenorfina sottocutanea settimanale e mensile per il disturbo da uso di oppioidi: un'analisi qualitativa e semi-quantitativa

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a complex chronic condition characterized by physical and psychological dependence, with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Although oral Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT) is currently the first-line treatment, adherence remains a significant issue. This study explores patients' acceptance and expectations toward a new long-acting subcutaneous weekly/monthly buprenorphine formulation. A survey was conducted on 100 OUD patients at the Integrated Multidisciplinary Service (I.M.S.) Gli Acrobati, investigating their preferences and economic willingness to support this new therapeutic option. The results show a strong interest in the long-acting formulation, with 57% of patients expressing maximum satisfaction. Participants identified the main benefits as reduced frequency of administration and greater stability in managing dependence. 93% of respondents indicated they were willing to cover costs ranging between €1 and €5 per day, with a variable duration from 1 to 12 months. This survey provides an initial qualitative assessment of patient preferences and their willingness to contribute to the costs of the new long-acting therapy, highlighting the potential for improving OUD treatment and the need for further studies on the long-term clinical and economic impact.

Keywords: ; Opioid Use Disorder (OUD); prolonged-release buprenorphine; Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT); qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis; economic sustainability

Elena Tamussi, Marco Marini, Accettabilità dei pazienti e sostenibilità economica della buprenorfina sottocutanea settimanale e mensile per il disturbo da uso di oppioidi: un'analisi qualitativa e semi-quantitativa in "MISSION" 69/2025, pp 15-24, DOI: 10.3280/mis69-2025oa19140