Using noninvasive brain stimulation to help treat addiction
Official title: Noninvasive Brain Stimulation for Treating Addiction (Supplement)
Funded at Highland Instruments, INC. · NIH-10999342 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new, gentle way to help people with opioid use disorder and other addictions by using noninvasive brain stimulation to change brain activity, with the hope of making it easier for them to stay off drugs and feel fewer cravings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Highland Instruments, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,314,672 |
| NIH project number | 3R44DA049685-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999342 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder or other addictive disorders who are seeking alternative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not struggling with addiction or those who have contraindications for brain stimulation therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) as a potential treatment for opioid use disorder and other forms of addiction. The approach aims to alter brain activity to reverse the harmful changes caused by addiction, which could lead to improved treatment outcomes. Patients may receive NIBS sessions that are designed to enhance their ability to abstain from substance use and reduce cravings. The study will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this innovative treatment method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for individuals struggling with addiction, potentially reducing overdose deaths and improving recovery rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using noninvasive brain stimulation for treating various forms of addiction, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Highland Instruments, INC.
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wagner, Timothy Andrew — Highland Instruments, INC.
- Study coordinator: Wagner, Timothy Andrew
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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.