Opioid Use Disorder Research Study
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University are conducting a study on sleep, mood, and behavior in people with opioid use disorder who are taking prescribed medication.
Fast Facts
Diagnosed & Taking Medication For Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
Experiencing Sleep Problems
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Richmond, VA
Study Background
This study is exploring how an investigational medication for insomnia may impact sleep quality, mood, and behavior in people being treated for opioid use disorder.
Many individuals taking buprenorphine or similar medications for opioid use disorder experience ongoing sleep problems, which can affect recovery and overall well-being. Researchers at VCU are studying whether a medication used to treat insomnia (lemborexant) can help improve sleep and related aspects of mood and behavior in people receiving treatment for OUD.
During this study, participants will take either lemborexant or a placebo (a pill with no active ingredients) for 8 weeks. Researchers will compare changes in sleep patterns, mood, and behavior to better understand how improving sleep might support treatment outcomes for opioid use disorder.
Study Background
This study is exploring how an investigational medication for insomnia may impact sleep quality, mood, and behavior in people being treated for opioid use disorder.
Many individuals taking buprenorphine or similar medications for opioid use disorder experience ongoing sleep problems, which can affect recovery and overall well-being. Researchers at VCU are studying whether a medication used to treat insomnia (lemborexant) can help improve sleep and related aspects of mood and behavior in people receiving treatment for OUD.
During this study, participants will take either lemborexant or a placebo (a pill with no active ingredients) for 8 weeks. Researchers will compare changes in sleep patterns, mood, and behavior to better understand how improving sleep might support treatment outcomes for opioid use disorder.
Additional Information
This study aims to learn whether a sleep medication (lemborexant) can improve sleep, mood, and behavior in people taking prescribed buprenorphine for opioid use disorder.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Diagnosed with opioid use disorder (OUD)
- Taking medication for OUD (buprenorphine products like suboxone, Brixadi, sublocade)
- Experiencing sleep problems
- Ages 18+
- Not currently using nor required to use a CPAP device for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea
Participation lasts about 8 weeks and includes 23 study visits at VCU. Most visits are brief (15–30 minutes), while a few longer sessions will include screening, baseline, and post-medication assessments. Study activities include surveys about sleep and mood, interviews, urine drug tests, blood samples, and wearing a sleep-tracking watch for several two-week periods.
Participants will receive compensation for their time. Transportation is available if needed. All study visits include a physical exam and blood work.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.