Understanding how xylazine affects fentanyl use and withdrawal
Official title: Neurobehavioral mechanisms underlying xylazine and fentanyl co-use and withdrawal
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11078233 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the combination of xylazine and fentanyl affects the brain and the body's response to naloxone, which helps reverse opioid overdoses, to find better ways to treat people dealing with opioid addiction and overdose.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $496,587 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA058933-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078233 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who use fentanyl, especially those who may also be exposed to xylazine.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use opioids or are not affected by fentanyl or xylazine may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neurobehavioral mechanisms that contribute to the effects of xylazine when used with fentanyl, particularly focusing on how it alters the body's response to naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. The study employs advanced technology to analyze signaling pathways in the brain that may be affected by this combination, aiming to identify potential targets for improving treatment outcomes. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to provide insights into the challenges of treating fentanyl addiction and overdose. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to more effective interventions for those struggling with opioid use disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients experiencing opioid addiction and overdose, particularly those affected by the combination of xylazine and fentanyl.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on opioid pharmacology, this specific investigation into the combination of xylazine and fentanyl is novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gipson-Reichardt, Cassandra D — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Gipson-Reichardt, Cassandra D
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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.