Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The World Health Organization updates its global guidelines on opioid dependence treatment, expanding care options to address rising overdose deaths worldwide.
In a statement released Monday, WHO says opioid use remains a major driver of global morbidity and mortality, with an estimated 316 million people using drugs in 2023, including 61 million engaged in non-medical opioid use.
The agency on Monday noted that opioids account for the largest share of drug-related deaths, contributing to approximately 450,000 of the 600,000 deaths recorded globally.
“Ensuring access to affordable, ethical, high-quality, evidence-based care is essential,” WHO says, highlighting that fewer than 10 per cent of people with drug use disorders receive treatment.
The updated guidance reaffirms opioid agonist maintenance therapy while introducing long-acting injectable buprenorphine as a new treatment option.
WHO says the addition broadens available therapies beyond traditional oral medications, potentially improving adherence and treatment outcomes.
The recommendations follow a rigorous evidence review process, with full guidelines expected to be published later this year or in early 2027. WHO Expands Opioid Treatment To Curb Rising Overdose Deaths
Public health experts say the update reflects growing urgency to expand access to effective treatment amid rising overdose risks and limited care coverage globally.
The agency stresses that scaling up treatment access remains critical to reducing preventable deaths and improving long-term recovery outcomes.
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Chukwu Obinna 