Using peer educators to prevent opioid overdoses and reduce stigma
A social diffusion fatal overdose prevention intervention: Assessing the effectiveness of people who use opioids as peer educators in training using & non-using networks on overdose & stigma reduction
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-10850901
This study is looking at how people who use opioids can teach their friends and family how to help prevent overdoses with a life-saving medication called naloxone, making it easier for everyone to talk about overdose prevention without feeling judged.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10850901 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how people who use opioids can serve as peer educators to help prevent fatal overdoses. It focuses on training both users and non-users within their social networks to effectively respond to overdoses with naloxone, a life-saving medication. The study aims to address the stigma surrounding drug use that may hinder open discussions about overdose prevention. By employing a randomized controlled trial, the research will assess the effectiveness of this peer education approach in enhancing communication and preparedness among network members.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who use opioids and their social network members, including those who do not use drugs.
Not a fit: Patients who are not involved in opioid use or do not have a social network that includes opioid users may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of fatal opioid overdoses by empowering communities to respond effectively.
How similar studies have performed: Previous interventions have shown promise in using peer educators for overdose prevention, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LATKIN, CARL A — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: LATKIN, CARL A
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.