The FDA has approved a subcutaneously injected, extended-release formulation of the mu-opioid receptor partial agonist and kappa-opioid receptor antagonist buprenorphine (Brixadi – Braeburn) for once-weekly or once-monthly treatment of moderate to severe opioid use disorder. Brixadi is the second subcutaneously injected buprenorphine formulation to be approved in the US; Sublocade, which is administered once monthly, was the first. Buprenorphine is also available for treatment of opioid use disorder in sublingual formulations with and without the opioid antagonist...

View Comparison Table: Some Drugs for Maintenance Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder

A new CDC guideline for prescribing opioids for pain recently became available. Nonopioid drugs for pain were reviewed in a previous issue.

The opioid agonist tramadol is now available in an oral solution (Qdolo – Athena Bioscience) for management of pain severe enough to require an opioid and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate. Tramadol has been available for years in immediate-release tablets and capsules, extended-release capsules (Ultram, and others), and in a fixed-dose combination tablet with acetaminophen (Ultracet, and generics).

The FDA has approved an epinephrine nasal spray (neffy – ARS Pharma) for emergency treatment of type 1 hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis in patients who weigh ≥30 kg. It is the first noninjectable epinephrine product to be approved for this indication.