Opioid Use Disorder

The fourth wave of the overdose crisis — driven by illicitly manufactured fentanyl, fentanyl analogs, and the veterinary sedative xylazine — has reshaped opioid use disorder care. WCAM 2027 will examine high-dose buprenorphine inductions, microinduction (Bernese) and macroinduction protocols for fentanyl-tolerant patients, the post-X-waiver prescribing landscape, and emerging long-acting depot formulations (Sublocade, Brixadi). Sessions will also cover extended-release naltrexone retention strategies, methadone access reform under the updated 42 CFR Part 8, lofexidine for withdrawal, and the management of xylazine-associated wounds and protracted sedation now complicating fentanyl exposures.