Licit & Illicit Opioids: Comparative Studies in Humans

Prescription opioid abuse has increased dramatically in the United States and is a significant public health problem. It is important to understand the pharmacological effects of prescribed opioids in order to predict and control their abuse and other negative health consequences. These studies will provide new information on the abuse-related features of tramadol (used for pain) and buprenorphine alone and in combination with naloxone (used for treatment of opioid dependence).