KEY POINTS
- WHO updates recommendations to improve treatment of opioid dependence and prevent overdose deaths.
- Opioids remain the leading cause of drug-related mortality globally, accounting for about 450,000 deaths annually.
- New guidelines expand treatment options, including long-acting injectable buprenorphine.
MAIN STORY
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced updated recommendations in its forthcoming global guidelines on the treatment of opioid dependence and the community management of opioid overdose, as part of efforts to curb rising drug-related deaths worldwide.
In a statement, the global health body noted that opioid dependence continues to significantly contribute to global morbidity and mortality, with opioids accounting for the largest share of the drug-related health burden, including fatal overdoses.
According to WHO data, an estimated 316 million people used drugs globally in 2023, including approximately 61 million individuals engaged in non-medical opioid use. Of the nearly 600,000 deaths attributed to drug use annually, about 450,000 are linked to opioids.
The organisation stressed the urgent need to ensure access to affordable, ethical, high-quality, and evidence-based care for individuals with opioid dependence, as well as those at risk of overdose.
Despite an estimated 64 million people living with drug use disorders worldwide, fewer than 10 per cent currently receive treatment, highlighting a significant global treatment gap.
To address this disparity, WHO continues to refine its guidelines to support countries in scaling up access to effective interventions and reducing opioid-related deaths through evidence-based strategies.
THE ISSUES
A major concern remains the limited access to treatment services for people with drug use disorders, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Stigma, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and high treatment costs further exacerbate the crisis.
Additionally, the growing prevalence of non-medical opioid use continues to strain health systems and increase the risk of fatal overdoses.
WHAT’S BEING SAID
WHO reaffirmed its recommendation for opioid agonist maintenance treatment (OAMT), which involves the supervised administration of approved opioid medications by qualified professionals to individuals with opioid dependence.
The updated guidelines maintain strong recommendations for the use of methadone and oral buprenorphine, while also introducing long-acting injectable buprenorphine as a conditional option, expanding treatment flexibility and accessibility.
The guideline development process, WHO said, was rigorous and evidence-driven, taking into account benefits and risks, patient preferences, cost-effectiveness, equity, and feasibility.
WHAT’S NEXT
Under the supervision of the WHO Guidelines Review Committee, the updated recommendations are undergoing peer review and finalisation. The full guidelines, including detailed evidence, implementation strategies, and research gaps, are expected to be published later in 2026 or early 2027.
BOTTOM LINE
WHO’s updated guidelines signal a renewed global push to tackle opioid dependence and overdose deaths through expanded, evidence-based treatment options, though significant gaps in access to care remain a critical challenge.
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