Using Metformin to help treat cocaine addiction
Repurposing Metformin as a Treatment for Cocaine Use Disorder
This study is looking at whether metformin, a medicine usually used for Type II diabetes, can help people recovering from cocaine addiction by reducing cravings and the chance of relapse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10936529 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of repurposing metformin, a medication commonly used for Type II diabetes, to treat cocaine use disorder (CUD). The study focuses on understanding how metformin can reduce cravings and the risk of relapse in individuals recovering from cocaine addiction. By utilizing animal models and behavioral assessments, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms by which metformin affects brain pathways associated with addiction. The findings could lead to new treatment options for patients struggling with CUD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults, particularly women, who are struggling with cocaine use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing cocaine use disorder or those who are not adults may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for individuals with cocaine use disorder, potentially reducing relapse rates.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of metformin for cocaine use disorder is a novel approach, there is pre-clinical evidence suggesting its potential effectiveness in reducing cravings in addiction contexts.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hernandez, Edith — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Hernandez, Edith
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.