Training the brain to reduce cravings for opioids

Closed-loop attention bias modification brain training for opioid use disorder

NIH-funded research Neurotype INC. · NIH-10699099

This study is testing a handy device that helps people with Opioid Use Disorder manage their cravings by training their brains to focus on healthier things instead of drugs, and it includes both people in recovery and those without the condition to see how well it works.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNeurotype INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10699099 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a portable device that helps individuals with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) manage their cravings through a technique called Attention Bias Modification (ABM). By using real-time neurofeedback and mobile EEG technology, the device will train patients to shift their focus away from drug-related cues and towards healthier, non-drug-related stimuli. The study will involve both healthy individuals and those recovering from OUD to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of this innovative approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Opioid Use Disorder who are currently abstinent and seeking support to manage their cravings.

Not a fit: Patients who are actively using opioids or those with severe mental health conditions unrelated to substance use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, FDA-regulated tool to help patients reduce cravings and prevent relapse in opioid use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using neurofeedback and attention modification techniques for various addictions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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 2026-06-15 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.