Peer-led support program for young drug abusers

Effectiveness of a Peer-led Personalized Support Program Using Instant Messaging Applications and a Self-determination Theory-based Intervention to Help Young Drug Abusers Quit Drugs: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT05918601

This study is testing a new support program led by peers to help young people struggling with drug use quit and improve their overall well-being over a year.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT05918601 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This program aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a peer-led personalized support initiative that utilizes instant messaging applications and self-determination theory to assist young drug abusers in quitting drugs. The study will involve a randomized controlled trial with participants divided into intervention and control groups, focusing on reducing drug use and improving health-related quality of life over a 12-month period. Approximately 200 young drug abusers will be recruited, along with 80 university students trained as peer supporters to facilitate the program. The initiative also includes extensive outreach to raise awareness about drug abuse among young people in Hong Kong.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this program are young individuals aged 35 or below who have a history of drug abuse within the past 12 months and can communicate in Cantonese.

Not a fit: Patients who are psychologically or physically unable to communicate will not benefit from this program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the chances of young drug abusers quitting drugs and enhance their overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with peer-led interventions for substance abuse, indicating a promising approach for this population.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
The inclusion criteria of target service group (drug abusers) for this programme:

* be aged 35 or below
* be able to communicate in Cantonese
* have an history of drug abuse within the past 12 months (including all types of drugs such as narcotics analgesics, hallucinogens, depressants, stimulants, tranquillizers and other recreational drugs)

The exclusion Criteria of target service group (drug abusers) for this programme:

* psychologically or physically unable to communicate

The inclusion criteria of peer supporters:

* be aged 18 - 35
* be able to communicate in Cantonese
* have a medical background
* complete the training courses and pass the evaluation of peer supporter qualification

The exclusion Criteria of peer supporters:

* psychologically or physically unable to communicate

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Health-risk BehavioursDrug Abuse
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.