CONCLUSIONS: HCV infection was associated with higher plasma concentrations of buprenorphine and buprenorphine metabolites.
SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS: Findings suggest the potential for opioid toxicity among HCV-infected patients treated with buprenorphine/naloxone, and possible hepatotoxic effects related to increased buprenorphine exposure. HCV-infected patients receiving buprenorphine may need lower doses to maintain therapeutic plasma concentrations. (Am J Addict 2014;23:34-40).
PMID: 24313239 [PubMed – in process] (Source: American Journal on Addictions)