Understanding Opioid and Xylazine Drug Mixtures
Behavioral Pharmacology of Opioid/Xylazine Mixtures
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER · NIH-11190811
This research helps us understand how mixtures of opioids and xylazine affect people, especially regarding overdose and addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11190811 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The ongoing opioid crisis has worsened significantly with the increased availability of fentanyl and the addition of xylazine, a powerful sedative authorized only for veterinary use. These mixtures are linked to a marked rise in overdose deaths, and it remains unclear why their use has increased so rapidly. We aim to learn how these combinations affect the body and brain, including their impact on drug reinforcement and withdrawal symptoms. This knowledge is crucial for developing better ways to prevent overdoses and treat addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients struggling with opioid use disorder, especially those who may be exposed to or intentionally using xylazine mixtures, could eventually benefit from this research.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by opioid or xylazine use would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to new strategies for preventing overdose deaths and improving treatments for opioid and xylazine addiction.
How similar studies have performed: While the opioid crisis is well-studied, the specific behavioral pharmacology of opioid/xylazine mixtures is a newer area that requires more experimental testing.
Where this research is happening
SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER — SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MAGUIRE, DAVID RICHARD — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER
- Study coordinator: MAGUIRE, DAVID RICHARD
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.