An Alternative Approach to Low-Dose Buprenorphine Induction in Pregnancy and Postpartum

Low-dose buprenorphine induction, unlike traditional methods, does not require that individuals experience at least moderate withdrawal before initiation. This technique has been widely used and studied in the general population; however, research in pregnancy is limited. We aimed to evaluate obstetric and neonatal outcomes after low-dose buprenorphine induction. In this retrospective case series, we reviewed all cases of low-dose induction during pregnancy or within 6 weeks postpartum at an urban academic medical center over a 3-year period. Nine patients started buprenorphine using this method, and all but one completed induction. There was a high rate of treatment retention and no apparent associated adverse neonatal events. Four individuals are in sustained remission and currently parenting. Though further research is needed, low-dose buprenorphine induction appears effective in the obstetric population.