Investigating how alcohol use disorder medications affect the sense of smell
Official title: Olfactory targets of alcohol use disorder medications
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10946292 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called oxytocin might help people with alcohol use disorder by reducing their cravings and drinking, and it’s for anyone who wants to learn about new ways to manage their alcohol consumption.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | September 26, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $221,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AA031708-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10946292 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not interested in pharmacological treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of oxytocin, a hormone, on alcohol consumption and cravings in individuals with alcohol use disorder. By administering oxytocin intranasally, the study aims to understand how it interacts with the brain's olfactory system to potentially reduce alcohol intake. The researchers will investigate the mechanisms behind oxytocin's effects, particularly focusing on specific brain areas that are involved in the sense of smell and alcohol behavior. This innovative approach seeks to develop more effective treatments for alcohol use disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with oxytocin in reducing alcohol consumption in animal models, but this approach is still being explored in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ryabinin, Andrey E — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Ryabinin, Andrey E
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Functional Connectivity-Guided TMS for Alcohol Use Disorder
A new approach uses targeted brain stimulation to help people with alcohol use disorder stay abstinent longer by focusing treatment on specific brain circuits.
-
Alcohol Use Disorder and Suicidal Behavior: Finding Why They Occur Together
A study using Swedish population data to understand why alcohol use disorder relates to suicidal thoughts and acts, with the goal of improving risk prediction and prevention.
-
Non-hallucinogenic psilocybin derivative for alcohol use disorder
A new, safer psilocybin-like compound is being studied to help people with alcohol use disorder.
-
Identifying brain proteins linked to PTSD and alcohol use disorder
Researchers are studying brain proteins that may contribute to PTSD and alcohol use disorder in US veterans to find new ways to help people who struggle with both conditions.
-
Mu and Kappa Opioid Balance in Alcohol Use Disorder
A study using brain imaging to understand how the brain’s opioid system changes during early sobriety in adults with alcohol use disorder.
-
Telehealth support to prevent suicide in people with alcohol use disorder in Tanzania
A telehealth counseling program is being adapted to help reduce suicide risk for people with alcohol use disorder in emergency departments in Tanzania.
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.