Using oxytocin to improve treatment for alcohol use disorder and PTSD
Oxytocin to Enhance Integrated Exposure-Based Treatment of Co-occurring Alcohol Use Disorder and PTSD
This study is looking at whether adding oxytocin to a special treatment plan can help people who are dealing with both alcohol use problems and PTSD feel better and stick with their treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10909926 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of oxytocin, a neuropeptide, to enhance an integrated treatment approach for individuals suffering from both alcohol use disorder (AUD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study builds on a previously developed intervention called COPE, which combines cognitive-behavioral techniques for AUD with prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD. By administering oxytocin, the researchers aim to improve treatment outcomes and retention rates by addressing the neurobiological and behavioral challenges common to both disorders. Participants will be involved in a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of this combined treatment approach.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are military veterans or civilians who are diagnosed with both alcohol use disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of either alcohol use disorder or PTSD may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for individuals struggling with both alcohol use disorder and PTSD, potentially improving their overall quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using similar approaches, indicating that oxytocin may enhance psychosocial interventions for co-occurring disorders.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Back, Sudie E — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Back, Sudie E
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.