Finding effective ways to prevent opioid use disorder in youth involved in the justice system

Using SMART Design to Identify an Effective and Cost-Beneficial Approach to Preventing OUD in Justice-Involved Youth

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · SEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-10441666

This study is looking at how to help young people in the justice system avoid problems with opioid use by trying out different levels of support, so we can find the best way to help them, whether or not they have other substance use issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10441666 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how to prevent opioid use disorder (OUD) among adolescents and young adults involved in the justice system. It focuses on using a method called the Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach with Assertive Continuing Care (ACRA/ACC) to evaluate different levels of intervention intensity. The study aims to identify which intensity of ACRA/ACC is most effective for youth with and without non-opioid substance use disorders. By employing a Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial (SMART) design, the research will adapt interventions based on individual needs, ultimately aiming to reduce the rates of OUD in this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults who are involved in the justice system and may be at risk for opioid use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are not involved in the justice system or do not have substance use issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and cost-efficient strategies for preventing opioid use disorder in at-risk youth.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that ACRA/ACC is effective in reducing substance use disorders, but this specific application for preventing opioid use disorder is novel.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.