How a specific serotonin receptor affects cocaine addiction

Influence of 5-HT1b Activation on the Abuse Related Effects of Cocaine

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-10457811

This study is looking at how a specific brain receptor might change the way people behave and make decisions when using cocaine, and it’s for individuals who are dealing with cocaine addiction to help find better treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10457811 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the 5-HT1b receptor in cocaine addiction by examining how activating this receptor may influence the effects of cocaine on behavior and decision-making. The study will involve a double-blind methodology, where participants will receive either a medication that activates the 5-HT1b receptor or a placebo, allowing researchers to assess the impact on cocaine-related behaviors. By translating findings from preclinical models to human subjects, the research aims to identify neurobiological circuits involved in cocaine use disorder and guide future treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are non-treatment seeking individuals who meet the diagnostic criteria for cocaine use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are actively seeking treatment for cocaine addiction or those with other substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for individuals struggling with cocaine addiction.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in preclinical models regarding the role of the 5-HT1b receptor in cocaine addiction, but this approach is still being tested in clinical populations.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, 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.
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.