Investigating the misuse of benzodiazepines and their interaction with other drugs
Benzodiazepine Choice and Polydrug Use
This study is looking at how people sometimes misuse anxiety medications called benzodiazepines, especially when they take them with other drugs like opioids, and it aims to find ways to make these medications safer for those who have struggled with substance use in the past.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Mississippi Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jackson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11014347 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how benzodiazepines (BZs), commonly prescribed for anxiety and other conditions, are misused, particularly when combined with other drugs like opioids. The study aims to identify specific characteristics of BZs that may reduce their potential for abuse, especially in individuals with a history of substance use disorders. By using choice models, researchers will evaluate how a person's previous drug experiences influence the likelihood of BZ misuse. The ultimate goal is to develop safer BZ options that minimize the risk of addiction and overdose.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 21 and older who have a history of substance use disorders or benzodiazepine misuse.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of substance use disorders or who are not prescribed benzodiazepines may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of benzodiazepines that are safer and less likely to be misused, ultimately reducing the risk of addiction and overdose for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that certain benzodiazepine ligands with reduced efficacy at specific receptors show promise in lowering abuse potential, suggesting a pathway for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Jackson, United States
- University of Mississippi Med Ctr — Jackson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huskinson, Sally — University of Mississippi Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Huskinson, Sally
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.