Understanding opioid and benzodiazepine abuse patterns

Opioid/Benzodiazepine Polydrug Abuse: Integrating Research on Mechanisms, Treatment and Policies

Wayne State University · NCT03696017

This study is trying to understand how people being treated for Substance Use Disorder in Wayne County use both opioids and benzodiazepines together, to see if this can help improve their treatment.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorWayne State University (other)
Locations1 site (Detroit, Michigan)
Trial IDNCT03696017 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the patterns of polysubstance abuse involving opioids and benzodiazepines among patients currently undergoing treatment for Substance Use Disorder in Wayne County. Up to 120 participants will undergo a comprehensive 6-hour assessment that includes clinical evaluations and hypothesis-driven measures related to mental health and substance use. The study will utilize various assessment tools, including interviews and questionnaires, to gather data on affective dysregulation, neurocognition, and substance use behaviors. The findings may help identify phenotypes that could be targeted to reduce the risks associated with polysubstance abuse.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals recently admitted to treatment for Substance Use Disorder who are using opioids, benzodiazepines, or both.

Not a fit: Patients with severe psychiatric disorders, such as current psychosis or bipolar disorder, will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients struggling with polysubstance abuse, potentially reducing overdose risks and improving outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data on this specific approach, previous studies have highlighted the dangers of polysubstance abuse, indicating a need for further investigation in this area.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Recently admitted and/or not clinically stable in treatment for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in Wayne County
* Using opioids, benzodiazepines (BZD), or BZD/opioid.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participants with current psychosis, bipolar disorder, or severe depression (i.e. severe psychiatric disorder)
* Individuals with serious neurological disorders, e.g. brain tumor, history of stroke, history of traumatic brain injury w/ loss of consciousness
* Cognitive impairment (IQ\<80)

Where this trial is running

Detroit, Michigan

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Polysubstance Abuse, Opioid Abuse, Benzodiazepine abuse

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.