In a pilot open-label randomized controlled trial, investigators compared the effectiveness and acceptability of buprenorphine extended-release (XRB) drugs versus daily sublingual buprenorphine-naloxone (SLB) to treat opioid use disorders in adult prisoners during incineration and after community re-entry. Eligible participants met the following inclusion criteria:

• Over 18 years old
• Met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-V criteria for current opioid use disorder or DSM-IV criteria for opioid dependence
• Maintained on SLB through the NYC jail opioid treatment program at the time of recruitment

• No interest in XRB treatment
• Pregnant or planning to be pregnant
• History of severe or acute medical or psychiatric disability that precludes participation or follow-up

52 participants were randomized into one of two arms to receive either monthly XRB injections or daily SLB. Participants were followed for a total of 8 weeks. Survey, interview, and clinical data were collected on a number of outcomes:

• Initial (baseline) patient preferences and treatment acceptance
• In-treatment patient satisfaction, assessed via interview and survey
• Overall treatment satisfaction, assessed via survey
• Medication diversion, assess via interview
• Treatment retention post-release
• Clinical effectiveness (i.e., decreased opioid use) post-release