VCU researchers are developing a long-acting medication for opioid addiction

Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) have developed a new version of a medication for opioid use disorder that could offer longer-lasting treatment. Current medications for opioid addiction often require daily doses, but the new formulation of nor-levo-alpha-acetylmethadol (nor-LAAM) is designed to be taken once a month or less frequently. This long-acting medication has shown promise in reducing opioid use and withdrawal symptoms in rodent models. The goal is to provide an alternative to existing treatments like methadone and buprenorphine, which come with barriers such as strict regulations and daily dose requirements. The VCU team hopes this new medication will make it easier for patients to manage their treatment and improve their chances of overcoming addiction. Further studies are underway to explore its effectiveness for human use.