Peer-led support program for young drug abusers
Official title: 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
Run by Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT05918601 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 30, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | May 31, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05918601 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are psychologically or physically unable to communicate will not benefit from this program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: Other studies have shown success with peer-led interventions for substance abuse, indicating a promising approach for this population.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ho Cheung William Li — Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Study coordinator: Ho Cheung William Li
- Email: williamli@cuhk.edu.hk
- Phone: 39430889
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.