Published: 09/18/2026 | Author: Quentin Blount

Oklahomans just learned that one of the newest medications for opioid addiction is now much easier to get. The state’s Health Care Authority announced that Soonercare members no longer need prior authorization for Brixadi, an injectable form of buprenorphine, after the agency implemented a first-of-its-kind value-based agreement with the drug’s manufacturer.

Even though Oklahoma has a wide array of programs that include inpatient care and local Narcotics Anonymous chapters, many people still fall through the cracks. Brixadi has now become more accessible for those receiving Medicaid.

Changes for Soonercare Members

Until now, a Soonercare member seeking Brixadi had to clear a prior authorization hurdle before the first injection. This paperwork routinely delayed medication by days or weeks and led many folks to drop out altogether. Now, you don’t have to jump through these hurdles. 

The OHCA was the first state Medicaid agency to implement this type of program for opioid use disorder medication. It’s part of a larger project to expand opioid treatment programs and education awareness across the state.

“Value-based agreements keep Oklahoma at the forefront of efforts to improve health outcomes for the people we serve,” noted Aaron Morris, OHCA interim CEO. 

Brixadi & MAT

Brixadi arrived on the market in 2023 and comes in weekly and monthly injections. It’s a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the full effect of opioids. Since it’s long-acting, a single injection maintains stable medication levels for a week or a month, removing the daily decision to take a dose. 

The announcement comes as National Recovery Month data has revealed a third straight year of declining drug overdose deaths nationally. Officials say the progress came from expanded medication-assisted treatment and harm reduction. MAT, including buprenorphine products like Brixadi and Suboxone cuts overdose risk, improves retention in care and supports long-term recovery outcomes.

Benefitting The Sooner State

State and tribal authorities in Oklahoma have spent years rebuilding treatment capacity after ranking among the states hardest hit by the opioid crisis. Removing a prior authorization barrier at the Medicaid level matters most for those at high risk and are uninsured or underinsured. 

For them, Soonercare is the only realistic route for life-saving meds. Fewer administrative hurdles between a patient and their first dose means more starting treatment and staying in it.

Peer Support Plays a Vital Part

Prescriptions work best with harm reduction. Naloxone remains essential and is available without a doctor’s note anywhere in Oklahoma.

Narcotics Anonymous meetings run throughout the state for peer support on the community level Our website maintains a free and browsable directory of NA meetings throughout the country, filtered by location.

You can also call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) to talk through opioid addiction treatment options.