Revolutionising Opioid Dependence Treatment with LAIB

Long-Acting Injectable Buprenorphine (LAIB) gained approval for release in Australia by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in 2020. Since then, LAIBs have emerged as a pivotal treatment for opioid dependence, offering an enhanced safety profile, regimen simplicity, and increased convenience for patients compared to alternative treatments. This innovative approach to managing opioid dependence has garnered significant attention in the medical community due to its effectiveness and safety.

LAIB represents a new frontier in pharmacotherapy for opioid dependence. The introduction of LAIB in Australia has proven to be highly beneficial for many patients and pharmacists involved in opioid addiction treatment. LAIB has streamlined the treatment process by eliminating the need for daily dosing and reducing the frequency of in-person visits. This allows patients to focus on their recovery while enabling pharmacists to allocate their resources more efficiently. As opposed to daily oral dosing, this formulation provides a sustained release of buprenorphine into the body, ensuring continuous therapeutic effects. The transition to LAIB has been associated with positive outcomes, particularly for patients with higher psychosocial comorbidity, facilitating better engagement in treatment programs. This is often more convenient for the patient and the pharmacist alike.

Research has shown that patients benefiting from LAIB tend to have a more stable treatment journey compared to traditional methods. The long-acting nature of these formulations reduces the frequency of dosing, enhancing patient compliance and reducing the risk of overdose. Moreover, LAIB plays a crucial role in minimising health risks associated with opioid use, such as infections and other complications related to injecting.

Of the key advantages of LAIB for the treatment of opioid dependence, the most impactful is the improved safety profile by reducing the risk of overdose and other health complications associated with opioid use. LAIB  simplifies the treatment regimen through weekly or monthly injections, which enhances patient compliance. Additionally, LAIB has been shown to positively impact various aspects of patients’ lives. LAIB treatment integrates a holistic approach, through discussion of alternative therapies, and the development of a positive support network, to address the physical, mental, and environmental aspects of opioid dependence, ultimately supporting a more comprehensive and successful recovery process for patients.

LAIB stands out as the recommended treatment for opioid dependence due to its improved safety profile, regimen simplicity, and enhanced convenience for patients and pharmacists. Pharmacists are well placed to support their patients via pharmacist-administration of LAIB. Our pharmacy software solution, StrongER, empowers pharmacists to administer LAIB with a comprehensive suite of features. From facilitating prescription administration to managing the site of injection, patient wellness, dose reminders, and PPA claiming. StrongER revolutionises the way pharmacists engage with patient care. By offering a more sustainable and effective approach to managing opioid dependence, LAIB represents a significant advancement in addiction treatment that prioritises patient well-being and long-term recovery.

If you provide this service or are considering doing so, please reach out to our team. We are always happy to support you in this initiative.

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