Clinical applications of wearable devices for individuals with at-risk substance use and substance use disorders: A systematic review.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review assessed the feasibility and acceptability of wearable devices that passively collect physiological data among adults with substance use disorders or at-risk substance use. It included 33 studies published between 2000 and 2023, most using wrist-worn devices and focusing on opioid or alcohol use. Short-term use was generally feasible and acceptable when privacy and safety concerns were addressed, and devices captured indicators including sleep disruption, stress, and overdose risk. However, none of the studies assessed whether wearable use was associated with improved substance use outcomes over time.

Key findings

• Thirty-three studies met inclusion criteria; the literature was heterogeneous and predominantly observational, with few experimental designs.
• Short-term wearable use was generally feasible and acceptable when privacy and safety concerns were addressed.
• Wearables captured indicators including sleep disruption, stress, and overdose risk.
• None of the included studies evaluated whether wearable use was associated with improved substance use outcomes over time.

Why it matters

Wearables may help collect real-world physiological and behavioral information during active substance use and recovery, addressing a gap in longitudinal clinical data. The review suggests potential for monitoring clinically relevant indicators, but the evidence does not establish that this monitoring improves substance use outcomes. Validated thresholds and longer-term evaluation are needed before clinical benefits can be determined.

What to keep in mind

The evidence base was heterogeneous and predominantly observational, with few experimental designs; some studies included people with at-risk use rather than diagnosed substance use disorders.