New peer-reviewed article explores buprenorphine’s potential as a novel harm reduction approach

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 2, 2026

CALGARY — A new peer-reviewed article published in Pharmaceuticals and co-authored by CoRE’s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Nathaniel Day, suggests buprenorphine, a medication commonly used to treat opioid use disorder, may also reduce the risk of fentanyl-induced respiratory depression, the primary cause of fatal opioid overdoses.

The paper examines how long-acting buprenorphine formulations may help reduce overdose risk by providing sustained protection during periods of instability, relapse, transition, and early recovery in an increasingly toxic fentanyl-dominated drug supply.

Buprenorphine partially activates opioid receptors while also limiting the effects of more potent opioids, helping reduce cravings, withdrawal symptoms and overdose risk. Some long-acting formulations may provide protective effects lasting weeks at a time.

Researchers also note that naloxone acts downstream after an overdose has happened, including in many cases after irreversible brain damage from lack of oxygen has already occurred. Using buprenorphine may reduce the likelihood of overdose related respiratory depression before it becomes clinically critical.

“Recovery is not always linear,” says Day. “Protecting individuals from fatal respiratory depression so that they can continue rebuilding their lives and moving forward on their recovery journey matters. This research highlights the importance of looking at buprenorphine not only as a treatment option, but also through the lens of overdose reduction.”

Dr. Day adds, “This approach is interesting, particularly as we consider how best to improve outcomes.”

The study, co-authored by a team of researchers and clinicians focused on evidence-informed addiction care, Dr. Anees Bahji, Dr. Imran Ghauri, Dr. Nick Mathew and Dr. Robert Tanguay, adds to growing evidence supporting medication-assisted treatment as part of a comprehensive recovery-oriented system of care.

The article, Reframing Buprenorphine as a Pharmacologic Modifier of Opioid-Induced Respiratory Depression in the Fentanyl Era, is available on the Pharmaceuticals website.

About CoRe

Canadian Centre of Recovery Excellence (CoRE) is committed to transforming how recovery is understood and achieved in Canada and around the world. The Centre’s mission is to empower decision making with the best available information to support recovery for those with mental illness or addiction.

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