Opioid Use
Research Study

Researchers at Avery Road Treatment Center are conducting a research study for adults who regularly use opioid drugs, such as fentanyl, heroin, kratom, or prescription opioid medications. The study is looking at whether adding buprenorphine to extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol) may improve treatment outcomes for people working to reduce or stop opioid use.

Fast Facts

Adults who use opioids and are interested in relapse prevention

18-65 Years Old

Compensation
up to $770

Conducted in
Rockville, MD

Additional Information

Extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol) is an FDA-approved medication used to help treat opioid use disorder. Researchers want to learn whether combining it with buprenorphine may work better than taking extended-release naltrexone alone.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Adults aged 18-65
  • Use opioid drugs (e.g., fentanyl, kratom, heroin, prescription pills)
  • Interested in receiving extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol) for relapse prevention
  • Overall Duration

    The study lasts about 24 weeks, or approximately 6 months.

    Study Treatment and Visits

    If you qualify and choose to join the study, you will receive extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol) injections. Within 2 weeks of your first injection, you will be randomly assigned, like flipping a coin, to receive either buprenorphine or a placebo pill to take every day.

    For the first 20 weeks, you will complete weekly study visits. Some visits may be completed remotely when an in-person visit is not needed. You will receive extended-release naltrexone injections every 4 weeks during the treatment period. A final study visit will take place about 4 weeks after your treatment ends.

    At-Home Activities

    During the study, you may be asked to complete brief daily remote check-ins to help the research team monitor whether study medication is being taken as directed. These check-ins may include video confirmation when possible. The videos are only used to monitor study medication use.

Yes. Participants may receive up to $770 for completing study activities. Uber transportation support and snacks may also be available during study visits.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.