Exploring how psychedelic drugs can help treat stimulant use disorders
Official title: Investigations into 5-HT2A signaling mechanisms of psychedelic drugs for the treatment of stimulant use disorder
Funded at Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11086143 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain psychedelic drugs might help people struggling with methamphetamine addiction by changing how their brains work, and it could lead to better treatment options for those in recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $480,492 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA061433-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086143 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with stimulant use disorders, particularly those who have issues with methamphetamine use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have stimulant use disorders or who are not seeking treatment for substance use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of psychedelic drugs, particularly those that target the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, to treat stimulant use disorders like methamphetamine addiction. The study will explore how these drugs affect brain signaling and neuroplasticity, which may help reduce the reinforcing effects of methamphetamine. By using specific compounds that selectively activate the 5-HT2A receptor, researchers aim to understand their impact on motivation and addiction behaviors. Patients may benefit from insights into new treatment options that could be more effective than current therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for individuals struggling with stimulant use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with psychedelics in treating various substance use disorders, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccorvy, John D — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Mccorvy, John D
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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.