Using injectable buprenorphine to treat opioid addiction in prisons
Injectable Extended-Release Buprenorphine (XR-B) in a Correctional Setting: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is looking at how well a long-lasting injection of buprenorphine can help people with opioid use disorder while they are in jail, aiming to get them started on treatment and keep them safe from overdose when they leave.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rhode Island Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086768 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of injectable extended-release buprenorphine (XR-B) as a treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) within a correctional setting. The study aims to engage incarcerated individuals in treatment, addressing the high prevalence of OUD in jails and the associated risk of overdose upon release. By implementing a randomized controlled trial, the research will assess how well this medication can be integrated into correctional healthcare and its impact on treatment initiation and adherence. The principal investigator, Dr. Justin Berk, is supported by a team of experts in clinical trials and implementation science, ensuring a comprehensive approach to this critical issue.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with opioid use disorder who are currently incarcerated and seeking treatment.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently incarcerated or do not have a diagnosis of opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to effective treatment for opioid addiction among incarcerated individuals, potentially reducing overdose rates after release.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that medications for opioid use disorder can be effective in community settings, but this approach in correctional facilities is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
Providence, United States
- Rhode Island Hospital — Providence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Berk, Justin — Rhode Island Hospital
- Study coordinator: Berk, Justin
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 below.