Exploring Deep Brain Stimulation for treating severe opioid addiction
Feasibility of Deep Brain Stimulation as a Novel Treatment for Refractory Opioid Use Disorder
This study is looking at a new way to help people with Opioid Use Disorder who haven't found relief from regular treatments by using a device implanted in the brain to help manage cravings and behaviors related to addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10893512 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) as a potential new treatment for individuals struggling with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) who have not responded to standard therapies. The approach involves implanting a device in the brain's nucleus accumbens region, which is believed to help regulate cravings and behaviors associated with addiction. The study will initially assess the safety and feasibility of this treatment in a small group of participants. By focusing on those who have not benefited from existing treatments, the research aims to provide an innovative solution to a growing public health crisis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with refractory Opioid Use Disorder who have not achieved success with standard treatment methods.
Not a fit: Patients who are currently responding well to existing treatments for Opioid Use Disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer a new, effective treatment option for patients with severe opioid addiction who have not responded to traditional therapies.
How similar studies have performed: While Deep Brain Stimulation has shown success in treating movement disorders, its application for Opioid Use Disorder is still novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Morgantown, United States
- West Virginia University — Morgantown, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rezai, Ali R — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Rezai, Ali R
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.