The investigators propose a rigorous, Phase II, three-group, placebo-controlled double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the efficacy of buspirone for both withdrawal and craving among individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) undergoing a standardized stepwise taper. During this 10 to 12-day residential study, participants with OUD will be enrolled, stabilized on a short-acting opioid, undergo an opioid stepwise taper, and complete a post-taper observation period where participants will have the opportunity to initiate long-term buprenorphine or extended-release naltrexone.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 75 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Aged 18-75
* Opioid positive urine sample
* Current moderate-severe opioid use disorder with evidence of physical dependence
* Interested in undergoing opioid detoxification
Exclusion Criteria:
* Being pregnant or breastfeeding
* Enrolled in methadone or buprenorphine maintenance treatment
* Allergic to study medication or taking medications that are contraindicated with study medication (e.g., CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers and/or monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors)
* Significant mental health or physical disorder, or life circumstance, that is expected to interfere with study participation (detailed further in protection of human subjects form).
* Hypotension and/or prolonged QTc interval
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in Opioid Withdrawal as assessed by the Subjective Opiate Withdrawal Scale (SOWS)