Identifying sleep patterns that predict relapse in drug users

Developing a sleep EEG-based biomarker for drug relapse propensity

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11074114

This study is looking at how sleep patterns, especially during dreaming, might help predict if someone recovering from cocaine addiction is at risk of going back to using drugs, with the hope of finding better ways to support their recovery.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11074114 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how sleep patterns, particularly during rapid eye movement sleep (REMS), can serve as indicators for the likelihood of relapse in individuals recovering from substance use disorders, specifically cocaine addiction. By studying the relationship between sleep abnormalities and drug-seeking behavior, the researchers aim to develop a biomarker that could help in predicting relapse. The approach involves using animal models to observe how changes in sleep can influence cravings and behaviors associated with drug use. The ultimate goal is to translate these findings into clinical applications that can improve treatment strategies for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals recovering from cocaine addiction who exhibit sleep disturbances.

Not a fit: Patients who are not recovering from substance use disorders or those without sleep abnormalities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for predicting and preventing relapse in individuals recovering from substance use disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between sleep patterns and drug-seeking behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.