Exploring new treatments for opioid use disorder using specific receptor blockers

Evaluation of the therapeutic potential of exclusive antagonists of extrasynaptic NMDA receptors for the treatment of opioid use disorder

NIH-funded research Neurano Bioscience · NIH-11078347

This study is looking at how a medication called memantine might help people with opioid addiction by reducing withdrawal symptoms and the chance of relapse, offering a new treatment option for those struggling with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNeurano Bioscience NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11078347 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of exclusive antagonists of extrasynaptic NMDA receptors to treat opioid use disorder. By focusing on a specific drug, memantine, which has shown promise in reducing withdrawal symptoms and relapse risk, the study aims to develop a more effective therapy for individuals struggling with opioid addiction. The approach involves understanding how these receptors contribute to addiction and testing the drug's efficacy in a controlled setting. Patients may benefit from a new treatment option that targets the underlying mechanisms of opioid dependence.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with opioid use disorder or those who have not responded to previous treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for individuals with opioid use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with NMDA receptor antagonists in addiction treatment, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.