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Heroin Addiction and Related Clinical Problems: 2026, 28: 73-84

Evaluation of patient outcome and satisfaction from Long-Acting Injectable Buprenorphine treatment in NHS Lanarkshire

Duncan R. B. Hill

Digital Object Identifier:
https://doi.org/10.62401/2531-4122-2026-10

Summary: Introduction The first Long Acting Injectable Buprenorphine (LAIB) was licensed as a treatment for Opioid Dependence in 2019 in the UK. NHS Lanarkshire completed a successful pilot of LAIB in 2021. In 2021, the Scottish Government supported the increased use of LAIB as a treatment option. Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the patients real life experience related to LAIB treatment exploring both health and social impacts of the treatment. Method A standardised semi structured was developed to explore the patients experience. Key workers issued the questionnaire to all patients prescribed LAIB over a 4 week period. Completion of the questionnaire was voluntary and had no impact on the patients continued treatment. The collected data was combined and analysed using mixed methods for quantitative and qualitative questions. Results 96 completed questionnaires were returned with a response rate of 47.8%. The responses gave a good indication of the patients experience from LAIB treatment. Patients reported increased engagement with healthcare professionals for treatment outwith OD, reduced alcohol and substance use and improved social aspects, e.g. relationships. The benefits experienced by patients reported that the biggest change was the “freedom” that LAIB offered without having to attend pharmacies regularly to collect their treatment and allowed them to have a more normalised life. Conclusion Patients reported a range of positive experiences from receiving LAIB treatment, including health and social factors All patients reported LAIB has exceeded their expectations and would recommend LAIB treatment to others with OD.

Keywords: Long Acting Injectable; Buprenorphine; patient satisfaction; outcomes