Early Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using Positive Airway Pressure in Veterans With Substance Use and PTSD During Residential Care to Improve Long-Term Recovery Outcomes

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 SUDPTSD 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.

OSA PAP Treatment for Veterans With SUD and PTSD on Residential Treatment Unit