Randomized trial comparing two treatment strategies using prize-based reinforcement of abstinence in cocaine and opiate users.

Kenzie L. Preston, Udi E. Ghitza, John P. Schmittner, Jennifer R. Schroeder, & David H. Epstein. (2008) Randomized trial comparing two treatment strategies using prize-based reinforcement of abstinence in cocaine and opiate users. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 41, 551-563.

We compared two strategies of prize-based contingency management (CM) in methadone-maintained outpatients. Urine was tested thrice weekly for 5 weeks pre-CM, 12 weeks CM, and 8 weeks post-CM. Participants were randomly assigned to a cocaine contingency (four prize draws for each cocaine-negative urine, N = 29) or an opiate-cocaine contingency (one draw for each urine negative for opiates or cocaine, four draws if negative for both, N = 38). There were no group differences in cocaine abstinence during CM or post-CM and no differences in opiate abstinence during CM. Opiate abstinence was greater in the opiate-cocaine group post-CM, and heroin craving was reduced in this group during and post-CM. Draws earned per cocaine-negative urine (four vs. one) did not affect cocaine use.

DESCRIPTORS: cocaine abuse, community settings, contingency management, heroin abuse, opiate