How sleep patterns affect substance use risk in teenagers

Circadian rhythms and homeostatic sleep regulation during adolescence: Implications for reward, cognitive control, and substance use risk

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10892093

This study is looking at how sleep patterns and body clocks affect the risk of substance use in teens aged 12 to 20, hoping to find ways to help prevent these issues by understanding how sleep problems can influence behavior and decision-making.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10892093 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between circadian rhythms, sleep regulation, and the risk of substance use disorders in adolescents aged 12 to 20. By examining how sleep disturbances and changes in reward and cognitive control systems during this critical developmental period influence substance use, the study aims to identify modifiable risk factors. The researchers will use a controlled environment to analyze the effects of sleep patterns on behavior and cognitive functions, providing insights into potential prevention strategies for substance use in teens.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who may be experiencing sleep disturbances or are at risk for substance use.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those without sleep issues or substance use risk may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and intervention strategies for substance use disorders in adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that sleep patterns significantly influence adolescent behavior and substance use, suggesting that this approach is grounded in established findings.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-15 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.