Which formulation of buprenorphine is NOT FDA approved for the treatment of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)?

The transdermal patch formulation of buprenorphine is not FDA approved for the treatment of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). The primary formulations that have received approval for OUD treatment are sublingual film, subdermal implants, and subcutaneous depot formulations, which enable effective management of withdrawal symptoms and cravings in individuals with OUD.

The transdermal patch is designed primarily for chronic pain management rather than for treating opioid dependence. It is essential to differentiate between these formulations, as they serve different therapeutic purposes and have distinct pharmacokinetics and delivery mechanisms. This distinction underscores the importance of using only FDA-approved formulations for OUD to ensure safety and efficacy in patient care.