MedPath

A Text Messaging Program to Help Prevent Early Opioid Relapse

Not Applicable
Completed
Conditions
Substance-Related Disorders
Registration Number
NCT02846649
Lead Sponsor
University of Pittsburgh
Brief Summary

The objective is to determine feasibility and acceptability of a text message (SMS)-based relapse prevention intervention as measured through: (1) study retention and SMS query completion rates and (2) participant ratings of PIER1 interest, perceived efficacy, and ease of use. Methods: A mixed methods study of adult (age \>=18) ED patients who seek treatment for opioids and have evidence of dependence based on Rapid Opioid Dependence Screen (RODS) score of \>3 and are being discharged to outpatient (community) resources. All participants receive standard of care in the ED, complete a baseline web survey, are asked to text with us for at least 7 days (up to a max of 28 days) and are asked to complete a follow-up phone call between day 8 and 14. Investigators expect preliminary findings to support a relapse prevention intervention delivered through SMS. Based on feedback from this mixed methods study, investigators plan to test a refined SMS program in a randomized trial.

Detailed Description

The vast majority of those with opioid dependence do not receive treatment. This may be due to the limited availability of existing treatment programs and to a range of societal and individual-level barriers, including the stigma associated with identifying oneself as a substance user and difficulty attending a treatment program on a regular basis. Technology-based interventions have potential to help address these barriers and to expand access to evidence-based psychosocial treatment. Automated, computer-based interventions have found high user acceptance and utilization and shown promise in treating substance use disorders. The current study will evaluate a text-message-based psychosocial program called PIER1 (Preventing and Interrupting Early Relapse 1) when delivered to treatment-seeking opioid-dependent emergency department (ED) patients. PIER1 is an interactive program based on the Relapse Prevention Model. It is also informed by cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.

Recruitment & Eligibility

Status
COMPLETED
Sex
All
Target Recruitment
20
Inclusion Criteria
  • Age 18 - 60 years
  • Seeking treatment for substance abuse (chief complaint of "detox")
  • English speaking
  • Opioid dependence (nursing history of opioid use + RODS score>3)
  • Ownership of a mobile phone with text messaging
  • Medically and psychologically stable (as determined by the clinician or investigator)
Exclusion Criteria
  • No mobile phone ownership or mobile phone without text messaging capabilities
  • Incarcerated/in police custody
  • Being treated for a self-inflicted injury or suicidal ideation (as determined by the clinician)
  • Medical condition affecting cognition (as determined by the clinician or investigator's discretion)
  • Unable to read, speak, or comprehend English (at the clinician or investigator's discretion)
  • Patients who are under the influence of illicit drugs or alcohol (at the clinician or investigator's discretion)

Study & Design

Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Study Design
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
SMS query completion rate7 days

Investigators will report the percentage of SMS queries replied to over 7 days.

Secondary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
Ratings of usefulness7 days

Investigators will report the median self-reported usefulness rating (0=not at all, 1=somewhat useful; 2=moderately useful; 3=very useful; 4=extremely useful

Number of intentional opioid uses7 days

Investigators will report the number of self-reported opioid use occasions.

Number of opioid overdoses7 days

Investigators will report the number of self-reported opioid overdoses.

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Emergency Department

🇺🇸

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States

University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Emergency Department
🇺🇸Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States

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