Intranasal buprenorphine alone and in combination with naloxone: Reinforcing efficacy and abuse liability in physically dependent opioid abusers

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Aims: Buprenorphine/naloxone (BUP/NX) was designed to prevent misuse by the intravenous (IV) route, as high naloxone IV bioavailability may precipitate withdrawal. We previously demonstrated that intranasal (IN) administration of BUP/NX results in appreciable absorption of naloxone. The present study explored whether IN BUP/NX has lower abuse potential and reinforcing efficacy compared to IN BUP alone in opioid dependent individuals. (Source: Drug and Alcohol Dependence)