OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of transdermal buprenorphine for treating pain in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP), with additional assessment of sleep quality and adverse events. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL up to June 2025. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing transdermal buprenorphine with placebo in adults with CLBP were included. Pain intensity was the primary outcome; secondary outcomes were sleep quality and adverse events. This review followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024629751). RESULTS: = 28%). Adverse events were more frequent in the buprenorphine group, although not statistically significant for total adverse events (RR = 1.98; 95% CI: 0.97 to 4.02; p = 0.060). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest a limited benefit of transdermal buprenorphine for pain relief in CLBP. While sleep quality may improve slightly, the potential for increased adverse events must be considered. Current evidence does not support the routine use of transdermal buprenorphine for CLBP due to insufficient analgesic effect and possible safety concerns.
Souza et al. (Mon,) studied this question.