The fight against heroin use disorder has evolved significantly in recent years. Heroin and its associated harms are considered part of the broader opioid epidemic in the U.S. While the current “wave” of the opioid crisis is primarily driven by synthetic opioids like fentanyl, heroin was a significant factor in previous waves and remains a serious concern.

Fortunately, new research, technology, and a growing understanding of addiction as a medical condition has brought forward effective, accessible treatment options that work for all opioid use disorders, which claimed over 81,000 lives in 2022.

Whether you're a provider, a loved one, or someone seeking support, it’s important to stay informed about the latest advancements. Here’s what’s new in treating heroin addiction and how the landscape is changing for the better.

MAT Remains the Gold Standard

One of the most significant shifts in recent years is the wide recognition of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) as the standard of care for opioid use disorder (OUD). MAT combines FDA-approved medications, such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, with behavioral therapies and counseling.

These medications work by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, lowering the risk of overdose, and supporting long-term recovery outcomes. Combining medication with therapy targets both the body’s dependency and the mind’s struggles, creating a more comprehensive approach to recovery.

Expanded Access to Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a medication commonly used to treat OUD. As a partial opioid agonist, it attaches to the brain’s opioid receptors, producing enough effect to ease cravings and withdrawal, but without creating the intense high of full opioids. This mechanism reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings, while also blocking the effects of opioids if relapse occurs.

What makes buprenorphine a standout medication is that it’s the first to be prescribed or dispensed in office-based settings. Methadone, on the other hand, requires treatment at specialized clinics. Plus, recent policy changes have relaxed restrictions, allowing more healthcare providers, including nurse practitioners and physician assistants, to prescribe it.

Long-Acting Injectables and Implants

A newer development in the MAT space includes extended-release buprenorphine options such as Sublocade and Brixadi (monthly injections) and Probuphine (6-month implant). These long-acting formulations reduce the need for daily dosing, help patients stick to their recovery regimen, and minimize the risk of misuse. They also provide consistent levels of medication, supporting greater stability during recovery.

Heroin-Assisted Treatment (HAT): Controversial but Promising

While not yet approved in the U.S., Heroin-Assisted Treatment (HAT) has shown promising results abroad for individuals who haven’t responded to traditional treatments. In this model, patients receive supervised doses of pharmaceutical-grade heroin (diamorphine). Studies from countries like Switzerland and the Netherlands report decreased illicit heroin use, reduced criminal activity, improved physical and mental health, and greater social integration.

Non-Opioid Medications for Withdrawal

Lofexidine (Lucemyra) has emerged as the first non-opioid medication approved to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms. It works by reducing the severity of symptoms during detoxification without replacing opioids in the system. This option provides an important alternative for clients seeking non-opioid based relief during early recovery.

Cutting-Edge Therapies Under Development

The research pipeline for OUD treatment is robust. Some of the most exciting developments include immunotherapies and vaccines, such as anti-opioid vaccines and monoclonal antibodies that bind to opioids in the bloodstream. Long-acting medications like nor-LAAM are also being studied for their extended half-life, possibly requiring only weekly or biweekly dosing.

Other cutting-edge therapies to have on your radar include deep brain stimulation (DBS), cannabidiol (CBD), and psychedelic-assisted therapy. Furthermore, AI-powered coaching and virtual reality (VR) exposure therapy are being tested to help individuals build coping skills, simulate real-world challenges, and receive 24/7 support.

Every Path to OUD Recovery Is Unique and So Are the Solutions

Heroin addiction is complex, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But the good news is that the tools, therapies, and support systems available today are more advanced and effective than ever before.

At Integrity Billing, we know that consistent, timely reimbursements are critical to your ability to provide high-quality care. That’s why we partner with treatment providers to streamline the revenue cycle, reduce administrative burdens, and advocate fiercely with payers.

Whether you're navigating insurance hurdles, dealing with delayed payments, or simply need a trusted billing partner who gets results, we're here to help. Contact us today at 800-683-5640 or fill out our contact form to learn how Integrity Billing can support your organization’s financial health and long-term success.