Actively Recruiting
Examining Early Intervention Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment on Long-Term Outcomes in Veterans With SUD/PTSD in a Residential Treatment Program
Led by VA Office of Research and Development · Updated on 2025-11-03
194
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This research aims to study Veterans with co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), conditions that often worsen each other and cause significant difficulties, especially in residential treatment settings. The study focuses on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common and untreated condition in this population that is linked to worse symptoms, quality of life, and higher relapse and suicide rates. Researchers are evaluating whether treating OSA with positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy during residential treatment can improve overall functioning, SUD, and PTSD outcomes. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: an early PAP treatment group receiving PAP therapy during a 28-day residential SUD/PTSD program, or a waitlist control group receiving PAP treatment three months after discharge. PAP treatment includes mask fitting, education on what to expect, and setting up the appropriate PAP device. The study will compare the effects of early treatment versus delayed treatment on symptoms and functioning, as well as adherence to PAP therapy during and after the residential stay. During the study, Veterans will be assessed at baseline, at the end of the 28-day residential program, and at three- and six-month follow-ups. Researchers will measure changes in disability, substance use days, PTSD symptoms, and suicidal thoughts using standardized scales. PAP adherence will also be monitored. The study aims to understand how early OSA treatment affects long-term recovery and functioning in Veterans with SUD and PTSD, with follow-up continuing up to six months after treatment.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
OSA PAP Treatment for Veterans With SUD and PTSD on Residential Treatment Unit
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Be a Veteran of the U.S. military or Reserve/National Guard member
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of 5 or higher per hour
- Have experienced trauma in childhood or adulthood at least one month ago
- Have current DSM-5 diagnoses of substance use disorder with at least 20 days of substance use in the last 90 days
- Have a full PTSD diagnosis confirmed by a clinician
- Be literate in English
- Be on the PTSD track of the SARRTP residential treatment unit
- Be capable of giving informed consent
You will not qualify if you...
- Have central sleep apnea with AHI of 5 or higher and more than 50% central apneas
- Already be using a PAP device upon arrival to the SARRTP unit
- Be advised against participation by medical staff based on medical history or physical exam
- Have a history of severe cognitive impairment (MOCA score less than 26)
- Have a history of psychosis or mania independent of substance use
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 28 days
Participants in the treatment group receive Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy while on the 28-day residential SUD/PTSD treatment unit. This includes mask fitting, psycho-education on PAP use, and setup of the PAP device.
Daily use of PAP device during residential stay
Duration - 3 months
Participants are followed to assess outcomes related to substance use, PTSD symptoms, suicidal ideation, functioning, and PAP adherence after discharge from the residential unit.
1 follow-up visit at 3 months post-treatment
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA
San Diego, California, United States, 92161-0002
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
P
Peter Colvonen, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
Similar Trials
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions? Get in touch with our team for quick support
Not the Right Trial for You?
Explore thousands of other clinical trials that might be a better match.
Sign up to get personalized trial recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Already have an account? Log in here