Combining buprenorphine and XR-naltrexone to prevent relapse in opioid use disorder

Efficacy of buprenorphine and XR-naltrexone combination for relapse prevention in opioid use disorder

NIH-funded research New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC · NIH-10640817

This study is looking at a new way to help people with opioid use disorder by using a combination of daily buprenorphine and a long-lasting medication called naltrexone, to see if it can help them stay in treatment longer and avoid relapse.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10640817 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment approach for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) by combining buprenorphine with extended-release naltrexone. The goal is to improve retention in treatment and reduce relapse rates among patients who struggle with opioid dependence. Participants will receive daily buprenorphine alongside XR-naltrexone to assess if this combination can enhance treatment effectiveness. The study aims to address the challenges faced by patients who do not respond well to standard buprenorphine maintenance therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who have not found success with traditional buprenorphine treatment alone.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with opioid use disorder or those who have contraindications to buprenorphine or naltrexone may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective treatment option for individuals with opioid use disorder, potentially reducing relapse rates and improving long-term recovery outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the combination of buprenorphine and XR-naltrexone is a novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in using combination therapies for addiction treatment, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.