Using a skin patch to help treat cocaine addiction alongside therapy
Transdermal Rotigotine as Adjunct to Behavioral Therapy for Cocaine Use Disorder
This study is looking at whether a skin patch that delivers a medication called rotigotine can help people with Cocaine Use Disorder stay sober by improving their focus and memory while they also receive therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10615366 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a skin patch delivering rotigotine, a medication that activates dopamine receptors, to assist individuals with Cocaine Use Disorder (CocUD) in achieving and maintaining abstinence. The approach combines this medication with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to enhance cognitive functions that are often impaired in those struggling with addiction. By improving executive function, the study aims to help patients better retain information and focus on their sobriety goals. Participants will use the rotigotine patches daily for six weeks while receiving therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Cocaine Use Disorder who may struggle with cognitive functions related to their addiction.
Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with Cocaine Use Disorder or those who do not have cognitive impairments related to their addiction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for individuals with cocaine addiction, potentially improving their chances of recovery.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of rotigotine for Cocaine Use Disorder is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in using dopamine agonists for other conditions, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bjork, James M — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Bjork, James M
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.