A literature review suggested by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy evaluates interventions and potential Pay for Success opportunities to treat opiate use disorders and related harms

Key Results: Based on the quantity and quality of peer-reviewed studies, there is strong evidence that supportive housing, or Housing First (HF), can mitigate a variety of harms related to substance use disorders. Among homeless individuals with mental health and/or substance use disorders, HF can improve housing outcomes, reduce incarceration rates and prison time, and lower both emergency department visits and inpatient hospital spending. The financial savings realized from these outcomes mostly offset, and in some cases may exceed, program costs.
Existing evidence also suggests, however, that HF does not decrease opiate or other drug use. Sustained use of extended-release naltrexone (brand name Vivitrol®) likely leads to a sustained reduction in opiate use. However, take-up and completion of Vivitrol® regimens among the criminal justice population remain a challenge; additional wrap-around services or support may be needed to engage this community.
Moderate evidence suggests that syringe service programs (SSPs) reduce risky behavior and HIV transmission among injecting drug users. Programs providing peer support to individuals with OUDs, jail diversion programs, and programs targeted at mothers and babies with OUDs serve a great need and would benefit from rigorous study.

Read More >>