Opioid Addiction Research Study
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine are conducting two new studies on new ways of administering methadone or buprenorphine treatment for adults using fentanyl interested in treatment for opioid use disorder.
Fast Facts
Actively using fentanyl
Interested in starting methadone or buprenorphine treatment for opioid use
Compensation
provided
Conducted in
Philadelphia, PA
Study
Backgrounds
Buprenorphine Study Background
This study is exploring a new buprenorphine initiation method designed to reduce withdrawal symptoms during the early stage of treatment.
Buprenorphine is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder, but starting treatment can sometimes be challenging, as it can lead to uncomfortable precipitated withdrawal symptoms, especially for individuals using fentanyl. Researchers are studying a low-dose initiation method with the goal of minimizing withdrawal symptoms and making the transition to treatment easier.
In this study, participants will receive either a standard dose of buprenorphine or a lower one under medical supervision. Participants will be connected with an outpatient provider to continue buprenorphine treatment after study completion.
Methadone Study Background
This study is exploring a new methadone initiation method designed to reduce withdrawal symptoms during the early stage of treatment.
Methadone is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder, but starting treatment can sometimes be difficult, as it can lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, especially for individuals using fentanyl. Researchers are studying a loading-dose initiation method with the goal of minimizing withdrawal symptoms and making the transition to treatment easier.
In this study, participants will receive either a standard dose of methadone or a higher one under medical supervision. Participants will be connected with an outpatient provider to continue methadone treatment after study completion.
By conducting these studies, researchers aim to better understand how to safely and effectively start addiction treatment and improve future outcomes.
Additional Information
These studies are being conducted to evaluate a new way of starting methadone or buprenorphine that may reduce withdrawal symptoms and improve the treatment experience for people who use fentanyl.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Actively using fentanyl
- Interested in starting methadone or buprenorphine treatment
- Not taking medications for opioid use disorder, such as buprenorphine or methadone
- Able to participate in a 2-3-day inpatient stay
- Do not actively use benzodiazepines
- Ages 18+
Methadone Study
Participation includes:
- Screening Visit (in person): Review of the study, consent, medical history, physical exam, questionnaires, blood work, and ECG
- Inpatient Stay (3 days, 2 nights): Monitoring, methadone administration, health assessments, and sample collection
- Discharge: Direct connection to a methadone treatment program of your choice
- Follow-Up Calls: Brief phone check-ins on days 3, 4, 8, and 31
Buprenorphine Study
- Screening Visit (in person): Review of study, consent, medical history, physical exam, questionnaires, blood work
- Inpatient Stay (2 days, 1 night): Monitoring, buprenorphine administration, health assessments, and sample collection
- Discharge: Direct connection to a buprenorphine outpatient provider
- Follow-Up Calls: Brief phone check-ins on day 14
Participants will be compensated up to $310 for their time and participation. Additional benefits include transportation support (Lyft rides for inpatient visits), free lab work, and consultations with medical professionals.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.