The impact of psychostimulant use on office based buprenorphine treatment retention

This study examined the impact of stimulant use on retention in buprenorphine treatment within a low-threshold OBOT clinic. Our findings differ from previous research that reported significant decreases in retention among methamphetamine users. Instead, results suggest that patients using psychostimulants can be effectively retained in care within a low-resource, low-threshold setting, though increased clinical engagement may be beneficial for those testing positive for cocaine or methamphetamine. Given the limited access to buprenorphine treatment, these findings underscore the urgent need for expanded, accessible treatment models that can effectively serve individuals with co-occurring stimulant use.