New treatment for opioid addiction using a brain-targeting drug

Development of SBI-553, an allosteric modulator of NTR1, for the treatment of substance use disorders

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · SANFORD BURNHAM PREBYS MEDICAL DISCOVERY INSTITUTE · NIH-10925412

This study is testing a new drug called SBI-553 that aims to help people with opioid use disorder by working on a specific brain receptor to improve treatment without the harsh side effects of current options.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSANFORD BURNHAM PREBYS MEDICAL DISCOVERY INSTITUTE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10925412 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel drug, SBI-553, that targets the neurotensin 1 receptor (NTR1) in the brain to help treat opioid use disorder (OUD). The approach involves creating a compound that can effectively modulate the brain's dopamine system without the severe side effects associated with existing treatments. By using advanced techniques to ensure the drug can penetrate the brain, the researchers aim to provide a safer and more effective option for individuals struggling with addiction. The study includes both laboratory and animal testing to evaluate the drug's efficacy and safety.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with opioid addiction or those who have not responded to other treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, safer treatment option for individuals suffering from opioid addiction.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on NTR1 as a target for addiction treatment, the specific approach using SBI-553 is novel and has not been previously documented.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.