Opioid Use Disorder Research Study
Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital are studying a new approach to starting treatment for opioid use disorder.
Fast Facts
Actively Using Illicit Opioids Daily or Almost Daily in the Past 30 Days
18+ Years Old
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Boston, MA
Requires 5-Day Research Stay in a Research Unit
Take the First Step Towards Recovery - On Your Terms
Are you interested in participating in a study that aims to make starting buprenorphine safer and easier for individuals with opioid use disorder? You might be a great fit for our study!
Our research team at Brigham and Women’s Hospital is testing a new way to begin buprenorphine treatment that’s specifically designed to minimize discomfort from withdrawal in people who are actively using illicit opioids.
What to Expect:
A 5-day (4-night) inpatient stay on a research unit (not a psychiatric or medical unit).
Buprenorphine will be administered, and we will carefully monitor for and treat any opioid withdrawal.
We will obtain blood samples, and collect answers to questionnaires.
Participation is completely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.
Compensation is provided for completed study procedures, including reimbursement for travel or parking to our hospital.
Ready to learn more? Our research team at Brigham and Women’s Hospital is here to answer your questions and help you understand if this study is right for you. Your privacy and confidentiality will be protected throughout the study.
Take the First Step Towards Recovery - On Your Terms
A new way to begin treatment using buprenorphine.
Are you interested in participating in a study that aims to make starting buprenorphine safer and easier for individuals with opioid use disorder? You might be a great fit for our study!
Our research team at Brigham and Women’s Hospital is testing a new way to begin buprenorphine treatment that’s specifically designed to minimize discomfort from withdrawal in people who are actively using illicit opioids.
What to Expect:
A 5-day (4-night) inpatient stay on a research unit (not a psychiatric or medical unit).
Buprenorphine will be administered, and we will carefully monitor for and treat any opioid withdrawal.
We will obtain blood samples, and collect answers to questionnaires.
Participation is completely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.
Compensation is provided for completed study procedures, including reimbursement for travel or parking to our hospital.
Ready to learn more? Our research team at Brigham and Women’s Hospital is here to answer your questions and help you understand if this study is right for you. Your privacy and confidentiality will be protected throughout the study.
Additional Information
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Who can participate:
- Are 18 or older with a diagnosis of moderate to severe opioid use disorder (OUD)
- Have used illicit opioids on more than 21 days in the past 30 days
- Are willing to stay in an inpatient unit for 5 days (4 nights)
- Are able to provide informed consent and comply with study procedures
Who is not eligible:
- Are currently receiving medication for OUD, such as methadone or under the tongue buprenorphine
- Have a positive urine test for alcohol, benzodiazepines, or methadone
- Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant
- Have severe medical or psychiatric conditions that may impair your ability to participate
If you participate, the study involves three visits at Brigham and Women’s Hospital:
- Screening Visit (2 hours): You’ll complete questionnaires, provide a urine sample, and undergo a physical exam to confirm eligibility.
- Inpatient Stay (5 days, 4 nights): During your stay, you’ll receive a single dose of extended-release buprenorphine (XR-BUP). Withdrawal symptoms and side effects will be closely monitored, with medications provided if needed to ensure your comfort.
- Follow-Up Visit (1 hour): Three days after discharge, you’ll return for a check-in to assess withdrawal symptoms and discuss next steps, including a referral to ongoing care at the Brigham and Women’s Bridge Clinic.
Throughout the study, you’ll receive support and counseling, including harm reduction education and a pathway to continued treatment after the study.
Yes, participants will be compensated for completing the study visits:
- Screening Visit: $100 upon completion.
- Inpatient Visit (5 days, 4 nights): $100 per completed night, totaling $400.
- Follow-Up Visit: $100 upon completion.
Total Possible Compensation: $600 via a reloadable Visa card from Advarra for completing all study visits.
Additionally, participants will be reimbursed for transportation and parking expenses:
- Up to $200 for public transportation (e.g., MBTA fares).
- Up to $200 for parking in the hospital garage.
Reimbursement for travel will be paid via check.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.