Understanding how drug cravings develop and change over time
Incubated drug-craving and neurochemical interactions
This study looks at how certain brain chemicals, especially glutamate, affect cravings for drugs in people with a history of stimulant use, especially when they are trying to stay away from drugs, and it hopes to find new ways to help those dealing with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Barbara NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Barbara, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11000320 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neurochemical changes associated with drug cravings in individuals with Psychomotor-stimulant Use Disorder (PUD). It focuses on how cravings can intensify during periods of abstinence and the role of specific brain chemicals, particularly glutamate, in this process. By using animal models, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind drug-seeking behavior and how cues related to drug use can trigger cravings. The findings could lead to better understanding and treatment options for individuals struggling with addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of Psychomotor-stimulant Use Disorder who are currently in abstinence.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of substance use disorders or are not currently experiencing cravings may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing relapse in individuals recovering from addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurochemical basis of addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Santa Barbara, United States
- University of California Santa Barbara — Santa Barbara, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Szumlinski, Karen Kathleen — University of California Santa Barbara
- Study coordinator: Szumlinski, Karen Kathleen
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.