Metformin and cocaine interactions in the brain
Official title: Investigating metformin and cocaine interactions in the brain at the level of pharmacokinetics, physiology, and proteomics
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11428085 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study explores whether metformin, a common diabetes medicine, could help treat cocaine use disorder by studying how the drug works in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $530,369 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DA066533-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11428085 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with cocaine use disorder who could potentially benefit from future therapies and may have coexisting metabolic health considerations.
✕Less likely to help
People without cocaine use disorder or those for whom metformin is not suitable due to medical conditions may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at how metformin behaves in the brain when combined with cocaine, including how it moves around and interacts with brain cells. Scientists will examine the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind metformin’s effects on cocaine-related behaviors, with an eye toward translating findings into clinical options for people struggling with cocaine use disorder. The approach includes pharmacokinetic studies and analysis of brain signaling pathways, such as AMPK and transporter proteins, to understand how metformin might reduce cocaine-seeking behaviors. The goal is to move from preclinical findings toward targeted therapies that could benefit patients with cocaine use disorder who also have type 2 diabetes or metabolic concerns.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a new, repurposed treatment option for cocaine use disorder that leverages an already approved diabetes medication.
How similar studies have gone: Previous preclinical studies show that metformin can reduce cocaine-related behaviors in animal models, supporting further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spencer, Sade Monique — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Spencer, Sade Monique
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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.