Addiction Medication Retention Low for Youth
A national study found very few young people with opioid use disorder remain on medication for six months.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Substance Abuse
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A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that while many young people aged 13 to 25 are diagnosed with opioid use disorder, retention rates for addiction medication are exceptionally low. Only about one in 32 youth diagnosed with the condition remained on medication for at least six months during the 2016-2023 study period.
Why it matters
Low retention rates and limited access to care contribute to rising overdose fatalities, which have become the third-leading cause of death for individuals age 19 and under. Addressing these gaps is critical as overdose deaths among young people have increased significantly since 2019.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 230,000 young people aged 13 to 25. Only one in six youth engaged in care received medication, and even fewer, one in 32, maintained that medication for six months.
The players
Boston Medical Center
This hospital serves as a key clinical and research institution and was the home of a study contributor.
American Academy of Pediatrics
This professional association is dedicated to the health and well-being of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults.
The details
The study highlights that systemic barriers, including a requirement for minors to document two failed recovery attempts before receiving methadone, limit treatment options. Additionally, many residential facilities for adolescents do not provide buprenorphine, and families often express hesitation regarding the necessity of long-term medication.
Timeline
2016: American Academy of Pediatrics issued policy on addiction medication.
2016-2023: Study period for Medicaid data analysis.
2019: Overdose deaths among young people began to skyrocket.
September 2026: Reported recent overdose deaths in Massachusetts.
October 2, 2026: Study published in JAMA Network Open.
Health Landscape
This study follows a pattern set by the 2016 American Academy of Pediatrics' policy on addiction medication, which aimed to increase clinical intervention for youth. Despite these guidelines, the findings illustrate the persistence of systemic barriers that hinder long-term recovery efforts.
Families navigating opioid use disorder may face difficulty finding facilities that offer buprenorphine or accept minors for methadone treatment. Patients and caregivers should prioritize vetting residential facilities for specific medication-assisted treatment capabilities.
The takeaway
Clinicians and families are encouraged to work together to overcome the stigma and apprehension surrounding long-term addiction medication. Improved engagement with compassionate, youth-centered care environments is vital to improving retention rates and saving lives.
Further reading
For more information on current treatment trends, visit the Substance Abuse section.
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