Using big data to improve treatment for opioid use disorder

DAT-Emulating target trials with big data to strengthen the evidence base for the clinical management of opioid use disorder

NIH-funded research Simon Fraser University · NIH-11013298

This study is looking at how to improve treatment for people with opioid use disorder in British Columbia by using data to find the best ways to help them, especially those who have other health issues too, so they can get the care they need and feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSimon Fraser University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Burnaby, Canada)
Project IDNIH-11013298 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance the management of opioid use disorder (OUD) by utilizing advanced data analysis techniques to emulate target trials. It focuses on understanding the effectiveness of opioid agonist treatments and addressing barriers to care that patients face, particularly in British Columbia, Canada. By analyzing large datasets, the research aims to provide clearer evidence on the best treatment options for individuals struggling with OUD, especially those with concurrent disorders. The goal is to improve treatment uptake and retention, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder, particularly those who have experienced treatment relapses or have concurrent mental health disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with opioid use disorder or those who have not sought treatment for their addiction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies for patients with opioid use disorder, potentially reducing overdose deaths and improving recovery rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that utilizing big data and causal inference methods can effectively inform treatment strategies for addiction, suggesting a promising approach in this study.

Where this research is happening

Burnaby, Canada

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 addictive disorder
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.