Efficacy and Safety of Buprenorphine Maintenance Therapy during Pregnancy: A Case Report

Abstract

The misuse of opioids during pregnancy has been associated with maternal, fetal and neonatal risks. Buprenorphine substitution has not been proven teratogenic during pregnancy. This case report highlights a multipara female who gave birth to four children while using Buprenorphine. All of her children were exposed to buprenorphine during pregnancy and they all appear healthy and have met normal developmental milestones. As such, a case can be built supporting the notion that the use of opioid maintenance treatment at the time of conception and during pregnancy is not likely to have negative effects on pregnant women or newborns. In this case, measurements such as the week of delivery, birth weight, height, umbilical acid-base balance and neurodevelopment were unaffected. Thus, the prognosis of using Buprenorphine during pregnancy is favourable. Medical professionals should be advised about the benefits of opioid maintenance treatment in pregnancy and educated about the potential results related to this treatment.