Investigating how individual differences and brain circuits affect fentanyl addiction treatment.

Fentanyl Addiction: Individual Differences, Neural Circuitry, and Treatment with a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-10896898

This study is looking at how certain medications might help people with fentanyl addiction by reducing their cravings, and it aims to find better ways to support those struggling with opioid use disorder.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hershey, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896898 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the complexities of opioid use disorder (OUD), particularly focusing on fentanyl addiction. It aims to understand how individual differences and neural circuitry influence treatment outcomes. The study will investigate the potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) to reduce drug-seeking behavior in patients, drawing on findings from rodent models. By examining the effectiveness of GLP-1RAs, the research seeks to identify new treatment pathways that could improve compliance and reduce relapse rates for individuals struggling with OUD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder, particularly those struggling with fentanyl addiction.

Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with opioid use disorder or those who have not been diagnosed with fentanyl addiction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for fentanyl addiction, potentially reducing relapse rates and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists can effectively reduce substance-seeking behavior in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.

Where this research is happening

Hershey, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.