Investigating a new treatment for opioid use disorder using psychedelic compounds
Target Specificity of Tabernanthalog Treatment in Opioid Use Disorder
This study is looking at how certain psychedelic substances, like 5-MeO-DMT and ibogaine, might help people struggling with opioid addiction by improving their decision-making and self-control, with the hope of making it easier for them to overcome cravings and regain healthy brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892601 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the potential of psychedelic compounds, such as 5-MeO-DMT and ibogaine, to treat opioid use disorder (OUD) by promoting neural plasticity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). The study aims to understand how these compounds can enhance decision-making and impulse control, which are often impaired in individuals with OUD. By focusing on the brain's ability to adapt and change, the research seeks to develop a treatment that not only reduces cravings but also helps restore normal brain function over time. Participants may receive these compounds under controlled conditions to assess their effects on addiction-related behaviors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who have not found success with traditional treatment methods.
Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with opioid use disorder or those who have contraindications to psychedelic compounds may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel treatment that significantly improves recovery outcomes for individuals with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with psychedelic compounds in treating various substance use disorders, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peters, Jamie — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Peters, Jamie
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 below.