NCT06732596 · Boston Medical Center
Sustaining Recovery for People on Opioid Agonist Treatment With Conversational Agents
(SARA RCT)
What this study is about
This study aims to improve retention in buprenorphine treatment, a medication used for opioid use disorder, through the use of a smartphone-delivered recovery support intervention. The intervention involves an Embodied Conversational Agent (ECA), a virtual, animated computer agent designed to simulate natural face-to-face conversations.
View original scientific description
This study aims to improve retention in buprenorphine treatment, a medication used for opioid use disorder, through the use of a smartphone-delivered recovery support intervention. The intervention involves an Embodied Conversational Agent (ECA), a virtual, animated computer agent designed to simulate natural face-to-face conversations. ECAs have been shown to help individuals manage their healthcare in other settings, and this study seeks to evaluate their potential in supporting patients on medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD).
Interventions
OTHER
Embodied conversational agent (ECA)
The app with the ECA will be provided.
OTHER
Technical support
Technical support will include assistance downloading and setting up the app on the participant's phone, walking them through a brief demonstration, and answering any questions the participant has about how to use the app.
OTHER
Additional ECA messages
Weekly text messages will be provided reminding participants to use the app on behalf of OBAT clinical staff.
OTHER
Additional incentives
Additional incentives will be provided after logging into the app for 20 days followed by monthly lotteries for those who log in 15 days per month
Primary outcome measures
Number of participants that stay engaged in buprenorphine treatment
Time frame: 12 months
Engaged in buprenorphine treatment or treatment retention is defined as a participant's treatment period of at least 365 days, including those with multiple disengagement and reengagement periods, as long as any gap in active prescriptions or receipt of injections is less than 60 days.
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
- Diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
- Within 30 days of intake at recruitment site (BMC OBAT)
- Possession of a smartphone that has minimum requirements
- English-speaking and reading
- Willing to release electronic health record (EHR) data
- Able to provide at least two alternate contacts who usually know how to get in touch with them
- Currently prescribed buprenorphine from an outpatient clinic
Exclusion criteria
- Incarceration anticipated within 12 months of enrollment
- Inability to comprehend the study protocol, defined as failing three times to answer correctly a set of questions during the consent process
- Inability to use the ECA app (i.e., due to markedly limited visual or auditory acuity or motor function required to interact with the ECA)
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Collaborators
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
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 Nov 3, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations