Investigating how oxytocin affects opioid cravings and use based on dose and sex
Official title: Assessing the dose- and sex-dependent effects of oxytocin on opioid demand and reinstatement
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11055824 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the hormone oxytocin might help people with opioid addiction by reducing cravings and preventing relapse, and it will check if different doses and whether someone is male or female make a difference in how well it works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DA059681-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055824 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with opioid use disorder who are seeking alternative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not struggling with opioid use disorder or those who do not respond to hormonal treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of oxytocin, a hormone, on reducing cravings and opioid use in individuals with opioid use disorder. It aims to understand how different doses of oxytocin and the sex of the individual influence its effectiveness in decreasing drug demand and preventing relapse. By using animal models, the study will assess the behavioral economics of drug-seeking behavior, providing insights into how oxytocin can be utilized as a potential treatment option. The findings could lead to improved strategies for managing opioid addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer a new treatment option for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder, potentially reducing cravings and preventing relapse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous clinical trials have shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of oxytocin for substance use disorders, indicating that this research is building on both successful and unsuccessful findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwendt, Marek — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Schwendt, Marek
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.