Thomas Licata, DO; Adam Clements, DO
WMJ. 2026;125(2):320-322. Published June 2, 2026.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Buprenorphine is a partial μ-opioid receptor agonist, an antagonist at the κ-opioid receptor, and a partial agonist at the δ-opioid receptor.
Case Presentation: This case report highlights the successful management of patient with advanced osteoarthritis who was not a surgical candidate, using transdermal buprenorphine, which provided significant improvement in quality of life and functional status.
Discussion: This case report describes the use of buprenorphine as a potentially safer analgesic option and aims to reduce stigma associated with its use in both medical and nonmedical communities.