NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving function in veterans with anxiety and depression

Official title: A New Intervention to Improve Function in Veterans with Anxiety and Depression

Funded at Durham VA Medical Center · NIH-11052454 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at a new treatment with a natural substance called pregnenolone to help veterans who are dealing with anxiety and depression, aiming to improve their mood, sleep, and overall well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDurham VA Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2024
Project endMarch 31, 2028
Funding year2025
NIH project number5I01RX004287-02
Project IDNIH-11052454 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are veterans experiencing co-occurring anxiety and depression disorders.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have anxiety or depression disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment approach using a neurosteroid called pregnenolone to help veterans suffering from anxiety and depression. The study aims to address the debilitating effects of these disorders, which often occur together and can lead to increased risks of suicide among veterans. By restoring levels of allopregnanolone, the treatment seeks to alleviate symptoms related to anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and pain. Participants will be monitored for improvements in their overall functioning and quality of life.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide veterans with a novel treatment option that significantly improves their mental health and daily functioning.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar neurosteroid treatments in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Durham VA Medical Center
    Durham, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Naylor, Jennifer C — Durham VA Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Naylor, Jennifer C

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.