The C.U.R.E. Addiction Center of Excellence: Brain Mechanisms of Relapse and Recovery Prescription Opiate Study
FAQ
What is the CURE Prescription Opiate Study?
The University of Pennsylvania’s Treatment Research Center is currently conducting a research study to investigate whether the medication, naltrexone (Vivitrol ®), will help prescription opiate dependent individuals remain free of the prescription medications they are addicted to. The study is also investigating predictors of relapse and recovery in people addicted to cocaine through the use of brain (fMRI) and behavioral measures (computer tasks & questionnaires).
What is Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a medication that blocks the effects of opioids. It does this by blocking the normal reaction of the part of the brain that produces the feeling of pleasure when opioids are taken. Vivitrol ®, naltrexone microcapsules, is a new injectable form of naltrexone that has recently been approved by the FDA to treat and prevent relapse after patients with opioid dependence have undergone detoxification treatment.
Important facts about Naltrexone
If you are taking Naltrexone as prescribed, you:
- cannot get high on any opioid including heroin, Dialudid®, Percodan®, OxyContin®, or methadone
- cannot become physically dependent on opioids (or “re-addicted”) as long as you are taking naltrexone as prescribed
- will not experience withdrawal as long as you are detoxified (“clean”)
- may have severe withdrawal symptoms if you are not free from opioids (“not clean”)
What is fMRI?
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is a painless technique that takes special pictures of your brain and does not involve radiation or injections. In this study it is used to measure brain reactions/responses to prescription opiate cues.
How long will I be involved in the study?
You will participate in this study for about 6 months. You will receive naltrexone 3 times (1 injection/month for 3 months) as well as 12 weeks of drug counseling and behavioral therapy followed by 12 weeks of follow-up visits.
Is the study confidential?
All of the information that you provide in this study will be kept strictly confidential. You will be assigned a subject code number so your name will not be associated with information collected or identified anywhere in the research results.
How will I benefit from this study?
Addiction is a major problem in our society. This study may provide information that leads to effective strategies (behavioral training, medications, or both) to treat opioid dependence and possibly prevent relapse. You will be contributing to our knowledge about ways to help others with prescription opiate use problems.
Can I choose to leave the study?
Your participation in the study is completely voluntary. You may withdraw at any time without affecting your present or future care.
Will I have to pay for my medication or therapy?
There is no charge for the inpatient stay, therapy or any assessment or lab tests you will receive in this study.
Will I be compensated?
You will be compensated for research assessments.
How do I know if I am eligible for this study?
Men and women ages 18-60 who use prescription opiates may be eligible for this study. Please call 1-800-528-5527 to speak to a research assistant who will conduct an initial phone screen to help determine your eligibility for this study. If you pass the initial phone screen you will be scheduled to come in for additional screening procedures to determine final eligibility.
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