Canada is in the midst of an opioid crisis, making it important to disseminate standardized approaches and evidence-based recommendations for managing opioid use disorder. This is a national clinical guideline that harmonizes existing provincial and national guidelines, evidence-based practices and expert opinions into one document aimed at providing consistent and high-quality care to people with opioid use disorder.

Opioid agonist therapy is the most effective treatment option for opioid use disorder, ideally combined with behavioural and social supports. It can stabilize the cycle of intoxication and withdrawal, reduce opioid cravings and block the intoxicating effects of other short-acting opioids, including fentanyl. People who are maintained on opioid agonist therapy typically experience improved health and social functioning and reduced risk of overdose.