CureusApril 1, 2026Pouya Azar, James Wong, Mohammadali Nikoo et al.
Developing and evaluating non-pharmacological treatments is critical for optimizing pain management and reducing dependence on opioids, as well as mitigating opioid-induced adverse effects. One promising approach involves the use of virtual reality (VR)- and augmented reality (AR)-guided mindfulness techniques. We examined the clinical utility of the Mindfulness app on the Apple Vision Pro...
Abstract Background The requirement for moderate withdrawal prior to initiation can be a barrier to buprenorphine/naloxone induction. Case presentation We aimed to use a microdosing regimen to initiate regular dosing of buprenorphine/naloxone in a high-risk patient with a history of failed initiations due, in part, to withdrawal symptoms. Using an assertive outreach model and a...
Buprenorphine is an effective treatment for chronic pain and may reduce opioid-induced hyperalgesia. However, its pharmacological properties make its induction challenging, time-consuming, and can precipitate opioid withdrawal. We present the case of a 66-year-old woman with inadequately controlled postoperative pain despite escalating doses of oxycodone and methadone, who was successfully...