Baseline and Outcome Comparison of Adolescents in Treatment for Opioid and Non-opioid Use Disorder

Abstract

In the current opioid epidemic, little is known about differences in treatment structure for youth with opioid use disorder (OUD) and youth with other substance use disorders. This study analyzed baseline characteristics and outcome data comparing youth who suffer from OUD vs. those with other substance use disorders in an urban Denver, Colorado clinic. A retrospective cohort review was conducted, analyzing clinical data between February 2017 and March 2021. Two groups were created and compared: those with OUD (n = 59) and those with other substance use disorders (n = 417). The primary outcome variable was achieving a negative urine drug screen within 16 weeks of baseline assessment. We hypothesized that there would be no difference between the groups in the primary outcome variable. Youth with OUD were slightly older and had more co-morbid stimulant use disorder. No difference between the groups was observed in achieving a negative urine drug screen within 16 weeks. A multimodal, generalized treatment approach yielded similar outcomes for those suffering from OUD compared to those with other substance use disorders. There might not need to be significant variances in treatment approach depending on the specific substance use disorder.