How stress affects drug-seeking behavior in people with addiction

Mechanisms underlying the influence of stress on drug-seeking behavior

NIH-funded research Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11082398

This study looks at how stress affects people trying to overcome drug addiction, using rats to explore how stress can lead to cravings and relapse, with the hope of finding better ways to help those in recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-11082398 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how stress influences the behavior of individuals seeking drugs, particularly in the context of substance use disorders (SUDs). It aims to understand the complex relationship between stress and relapse, focusing on the biological mechanisms that make stress a trigger for drug-seeking behavior. Using a rat model, the study examines how stress interacts with drug use and the brain's signaling pathways, particularly involving the endocannabinoid system. The findings could lead to new strategies for preventing relapse in individuals recovering from addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of substance use disorders who experience stress-related triggers for relapse.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of substance use disorders or who are not affected by stress-related triggers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions that reduce the risk of relapse in individuals with substance use disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of stress in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, 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.