Understanding the factors behind opioid and stimulant use patterns to improve treatment
Official title: Preferences and predictors driving opioid-involved polysubstance use profiles and trajectories: Implications for improving care
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10584684 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why some people use both opioids and stimulants together, focusing on personal, social, and community influences, to find ways to help those at risk, especially those who might not get the support they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $2,339,396 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DA057591-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10584684 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing issues related to opioid and stimulant use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not engage in polysubstance use or who are not affected by opioid-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the reasons and preferences that lead to polysubstance use involving opioids and stimulants, particularly focusing on individual, social, and community factors. It aims to identify modifiable motivators that drive high-risk behaviors, such as the use of synthetic opioids and intravenous drug use. By applying behavioral economic theory, the study seeks to understand how substance use preferences are influenced by the perceived value of drugs and the underestimation of overdose risks. The findings will help tailor treatment services for individuals struggling with these issues, especially those who are less likely to receive effective care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals with opioid-involved polysubstance use, ultimately reducing overdose deaths.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding individual and community factors can significantly improve treatment outcomes for substance use disorders, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coughlin, Lara Nicole — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Coughlin, Lara Nicole
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.