Testing a new treatment to ease opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Preclinical assessment of a Sterol Carrier Protein-2 inhibitor in multidimensional opioid withdrawal.

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11064238

This study is exploring a new way to help people dealing with opioid withdrawal symptoms like pain and anxiety by using a special treatment that might make the body’s natural calming substances work better, aiming to offer a safer option for those facing opioid use challenges.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11064238 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to alleviate the symptoms of opioid withdrawal, which can include pain, anxiety, and irritability. The study focuses on a specific inhibitor that targets a protein involved in the transport of endocannabinoids, potentially enhancing their effects without the side effects associated with traditional cannabinoid treatments. Using a preclinical model, the research will assess how this inhibitor can improve the management of withdrawal symptoms in a controlled setting. The findings could lead to new therapeutic options for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms, particularly those with opioid use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently experiencing opioid withdrawal or those not diagnosed with opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for managing opioid withdrawal symptoms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using cannabinoid-related approaches for managing withdrawal symptoms, making this a potentially impactful area of exploration.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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 2026-06-13 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.