NCT04811014 · The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Young Houston Emergency Opioid Engagement System
(YHEROES)
What this study is about
The Houston Emergency Response Opioid Engagement System for Youths and Adolescents (Young HEROES) is a community-based research program integrating assertive outreach, medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), behavioral counseling, and peer recovery support. The objective is to compare differences in engagement and retention in treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder.
View original scientific description
The Houston Emergency Response Opioid Engagement System for Youths and Adolescents (Young HEROES) is a community-based research program integrating assertive outreach, medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), behavioral counseling, and peer recovery support. The objective is to compare differences in engagement and retention in treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder. The investigators also intend to understand the prevalence of opioid overdoses and OUD among youth in Houston.
Interventions
DRUG
Buprenorphine, Naloxone Drug Combination
8mg of buprenorphine/2mg of naloxone to initiate MOUD treatment and bridge, if necessary, until referral to MOUD clinic can be made for ongoing treatment
BEHAVIORAL
Individual Counseling
One-on-one counseling with a licensed chemical dependency counselor
BEHAVIORAL
Peer Recovery Support Services
24/7 support from our team of certified peer recovery support specialists to assist with emotional support and case management
BEHAVIORAL
Support Group
Referrals to youth-focused support groups and eventual creation of in-house youth-focused support groups
BEHAVIORAL
Referral to Medication Management
Study staff will refer patients to long-term MOUD providers in the community
BEHAVIORAL
Assertive Outreach
The investigators will conduct weekly outreach to youths who experienced an opioid overdose and attempt to initiate treatment. Outreach is completed by a paramedic and peer coach.
Primary outcome measures
Patient retention in treatment
Time frame: 30 days after enrollment
Percentage of enrolled youth in treatment over time
Patient abstinence from opioids
Time frame: 30 days after enrollment
Days without substance use
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- In otherwise good health based on physician assessment and medical history
- Drug screen positive for opioids
- Patients express a willingness to stop opioid use
- Meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria for opioid dependence
- Patients must be able to speak English
- Be agreeable to and capable of signing the informed consent and assent (parent or guardian must consent, minor must assent)
Exclusion criteria
- Non-English-speaking patients
- Have a known sensitivity to buprenorphine or naloxone
- Be physiologically dependent on alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other drugs of abuse that require immediate medical attention. Other substance use diagnoses are not exclusionary.
- Have a medical condition that would, in the opinion of the study physician, make participation medically hazardous, including unstable cardiovascular disease, neurological deficits, trauma, acute hepatitis, stroke, and liver or renal disease)
- Be acutely psychotic, severely depressed, and in need of inpatient treatment, or is an immediate suicide risk
- Be a nursing or pregnant female
Where
- Houston, Texas
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 1, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations