Can Buprenorphine Be Used for Opioid Use Disorder During Pregnancy?

New clinical studies indicate that buprenorphine can be a promising alternative to methadone for treating opioid use disorder (OUD) in pregnant women. Various benefits for the mother have been identified with buprenorphine's unique pharmacokinetics, effect on clinical outcomes, and convenience for the patient. With the growing problem of OUD in pregnant women, clinicians must be aware of treatment options and their associated advantages and disadvantages.