Screening for substance abuse treatment options

General Evaluation of Eligibility for Substance Abuse/Dependence Research

Observational The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston · NCT00439049

This study is trying to make it easier for people looking for help with substance abuse by quickly matching them with the right treatment options after a simple phone screening.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment7500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston Academic / other
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT00439049 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to streamline the consent and evaluation process for individuals seeking treatment for substance abuse, including cocaine, opiates, and alcohol. Approximately 1500 candidates will undergo preliminary telephone screenings, followed by in-person evaluations that include a comprehensive medical, social, psychiatric, and drug use history. Those who meet the health criteria will be matched with appropriate clinical trials or studies, with results evaluated within two days. The goal is to create a consolidated intake database for further analysis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are seeking treatment for substance abuse and are generally physically healthy.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, mandated to attend treatment by legal authorities, or not actively seeking treatment for substance abuse may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance the matching of patients to suitable treatment options, improving outcomes for those struggling with substance abuse.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in using consolidated screening processes to improve treatment matching, indicating this approach is promising.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Willing and able to participate in 3- to 6-month treatment program.
* At least 18 years of age.
* Seeking treatment for substances of abuse including (cocaine, opiates, and alcohol).
* Generally physically healthy.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant or breastfeeding.
* Mandated by the courts/parole officers to attend treatment.
* Not seeking treatment for substances of abuse.
* Plans to move from the Houston area within the 3- to 6-month treatment period.
* Seeking treatment for a substance for which the Treatment Research Clinic (TRC) has no current trial.

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

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 Cocaine AbuseCocaine DependenceOpiate DependenceAlcohol DependenceSubstance AbuseTreatmentEligibility
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.