Methadone and buprenorphine are the most studied, safest, and most effective medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD).
Both medications promote recovery and save lives by reducing opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while cutting overdose risk in half. But despite evidence showing the lifesaving benefits of MOUD, only an estimated 25% of people with opioid use disorder receive MOUD treatment.
Access to MOUD is limited by strict regulations, cost, health insurance barriers, and not having a pharmacy or doctor who can prescribe it to you. Policymakers must take action to remove barriers and increase access to MOUD.
Read our fact sheet: Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD): Methadone and Buprenorphine