How sleep problems during cocaine abstinence affect motivation to use cocaine
Official title: Sleep Disturbances During Cocaine Abstinence, Dopamine Adaptations, and Motivation for Cocaine
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-11042790 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sleep problems might affect cravings for cocaine when someone is trying to stay sober, using rats to see how changes in brain chemicals during sleep can influence these urges, with the hope of finding new ways to help people struggling with cocaine use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $444,922 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA056193-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042790 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals struggling with cocaine use disorder who experience sleep disturbances during abstinence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of cocaine use or those without sleep disturbances may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between sleep disturbances and motivation for cocaine use during periods of abstinence. Using animal models, specifically rats, the study examines how changes in dopamine levels during sleep can influence cravings and the likelihood of relapse. The researchers aim to understand the mechanisms behind these effects, focusing on the role of the dopamine transporter in the brain's reward system. By exploring these connections, the research seeks to identify potential targets for new treatments for cocaine use disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to help individuals with cocaine use disorder manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of linking sleep disturbances and dopamine adaptations during cocaine abstinence is novel, related research has shown that addressing sleep issues can impact addiction recovery positively.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: España, Rodrigo a. — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: España, Rodrigo a.
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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.