Creating a new tool to assess substance use in at-risk groups

Development of a novel polysubstance assessment tool for vulnerable subpopulations

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10857281

This study is creating a new tool to better understand how people use multiple substances, especially those who are at risk, like those using opioids, so we can find better ways to help them stay healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10857281 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new assessment tool specifically designed to measure polysubstance use, particularly among vulnerable populations such as those using opioids. The project aims to address the gaps in current screening methods that fail to capture the complexities of substance use behaviors. By accurately measuring these behaviors, the research seeks to identify the motivations and correlates of polysubstance use, which can inform the development of targeted interventions to improve health outcomes. The principal investigator, Dr. Amanda Bunting, will enhance her skills in instrument development and validation through this project.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals from vulnerable populations who engage in polysubstance use, particularly those involving opioids.

Not a fit: Patients who do not engage in polysubstance use or are not part of vulnerable populations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better assessment tools that improve health outcomes for individuals struggling with polysubstance use.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in developing assessment tools for substance use, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful advancements.

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.
Conditions Communicable Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.