Understanding how traumatic brain injury and opioids affect addiction risks

TBI and opioid interactions in addiction-related outcomes

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CLEMENT J. ZABLOCKI VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10993872

This study is looking at how a traumatic brain injury might increase the chances of developing problems with opioid use, using animal models to understand the connection better, and it could help us learn more about why some people struggle with addiction after a brain injury.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCLEMENT J. ZABLOCKI VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10993872 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the risk of developing substance use disorders, particularly focusing on opioid addiction. It utilizes rodent models to explore how TBI influences opioid self-administration and drug-seeking behavior. By employing advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to uncover the physiological interactions between TBI and opioids that may lead to increased addiction risks. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms behind substance abuse following brain injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have suffered a traumatic brain injury and are at risk for developing substance use disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury or do not have a history of substance use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for opioid addiction in patients who have experienced traumatic brain injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant correlations between TBI and substance abuse, indicating that this area of investigation is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

MILWAUKEE, 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 →

Conditions: Acquired brain injury, addictive disorder

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.