Butler Hospital Research Studies

Project Start: A Disulfiram-Adherence Study (Closed)

Written by Butler Hospital | March 30, 2021
Study Overview


Project START is a research study funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). The goal of this study is to develop and evaluate different interventions aimed at increasing Disulfiram (Antabuse) medication adherence. In this study, you may receive a Wisepill device, which is an electronic pillbox that keeps track of when it is opened and closed. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three programs: Wisepill device + text-messaging, Wisepill device only, or Disulfiram-only. Participants assigned to the first two programs will be given a Wisepill device to store their medication in. Participants in the Wisepill + text messaging condition will receive text message reminders to take their Antabuse and relapse-prevention messages, if applicable. Participants in all 3 programs will meet with a study counselor for an orientation session.  

Eligibility Information

Participants must be between the ages of 18-65 and have been prescribed disulfiram (Antabuse) within the past 30 days. Participants must plan to take Disulfiram for at least 3 months as well as be currently enrolled in alcohol treatment either at Butler Hospital or with a local community provider (e.g.. a mental health care provider, psychiatrist, etc.). 

Compensation

Participants will receive up to $210 for full participation in study procedures.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I receive the Wisepill device and/or text messages?

You may, depending on which of the three study conditions you are randomized to:

  • Disulfiram only - Participants in this condition will not receive Wisepill device or text messages.
  • Wisepill Device only - Participants in this condition will receive the Wisepill device.
  • Wisepill + Text Messages - Participants in this condition will receive both the Wisepill device AND text messages

Will participation be in-person?

This study can be accommodating to the participants’ preference of either in-person or virtual participation. Assessments can be done either in-person, over the phone, or over Zoom, which is a secure video-conferencing platform. 

How much time will it take?

The initial baseline assessment takes between 1-2 hours. Additionally, there are brief follow-up assessments at the 1-, 2-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up time points. These assessments will take up to 1 hour of your time.