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

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, TV = 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.