A digital intervention to help manage emotional pain and reduce alcohol use in people receiving treatment for opioid use disorder.
Brief Digitally-Enhanced Intervention for Managing Emotional Pain and Reducing Alcohol Use during Medication for OUD
This study is testing a new online program called IMPROVE to help people with opioid use disorder manage their emotional pain and cut down on drinking, making it easier for them to feel better and stay on track with their recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001353 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a brief, digitally-enhanced intervention called IMPROVE, aimed at helping individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) manage emotional pain and reduce their alcohol consumption. The intervention is based on the CANUE model, which identifies emotional distress as a key factor in problematic alcohol use. By targeting anxiety sensitivity and intolerance of uncertainty, the program seeks to break the cycle of addiction and improve treatment outcomes for those on medication for OUD. Participants will engage with the intervention through a virtual platform, allowing for real-time support and assessment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals receiving medication for opioid use disorder who also struggle with heavy alcohol use and emotional pain.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues with alcohol use or are not receiving treatment for opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment outcomes for individuals with opioid use disorder by reducing their alcohol consumption and emotional distress.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar digital interventions in reducing anxiety and alcohol use, suggesting a promising approach for this population.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- Ohio State University — Columbus, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gorka, Stephanie — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Gorka, Stephanie
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.