Recent advances in digital health interventions for substance use disorders

The purpose of this review is to provide an update of the recently published randomized controlled trials in the field of digital health interventions for substance use disorders.

Over the past 2 years, five cannabis-specific and seven polysubstance-focused randomized controlled trials were published. No studies were found that focused on opioid or psychostimulant use disorders. Most studies examined feasibility but were underpowered to assess effectiveness. Given the optimistic results of the studies in regards to feasibility more fully powered trials should be conducted. In addition, the literature is in need for an increased focus on comorbidity and outcome standardization.

Although the number of studies targeting new target groups, technologies and new delivery settings has increased - future studies should consider the identified gaps and suggestions to further strengthen the evidence of digital interventions targeting substance use disorders.