Long-Acting Injectable Buprenorphine: Uptake Was Rapid But Uneven, 2021-24.

We analyzed nationwide IQVIA pharmacy buprenorphine prescription episodes to characterize patterns, prescribers, and payers of long-acting injectable buprenorphine during the period 2021-24. Among 2,266,202 episodes, 41,488 (1.83 percent) were identified as being initiated with long-acting injectables, varying greatly across states. By 2024, Medicaid emerged as the most likely payer (71 percent of episodes), and most long-acting injectable episodes were prescribed by advanced practice clinicians such as nurse practitioners (62 percent).