Using Semaglutide to Help Treat Cocaine Use Disorder

Repurposing Semaglutide for the Treatment of Cocaine Use Disorder: a Pilot Mechanistic Study

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON · NIH-11104610

This study is looking at whether semaglutide, a medication usually used for diabetes and weight loss, can help people with cocaine addiction by improving their treatment and making therapy more effective.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11104610 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of semaglutide, a medication typically used for diabetes and obesity, to treat cocaine use disorder (CUD). The study aims to understand how this drug can affect brain pathways related to addiction and enhance the effectiveness of behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy. By examining its impact on cocaine-related behaviors in both animal models and humans, the research seeks to provide new pharmacological options for individuals struggling with CUD. If successful, this could lead to improved treatment strategies for those affected by cocaine addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with cocaine use disorder who may benefit from additional treatment options beyond traditional behavioral therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with cocaine use disorder or those who do not meet the criteria for participation in the study may not receive any benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new pharmacological treatment option for individuals with cocaine use disorder, potentially improving recovery outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists in treating cocaine use disorder is a novel approach, preliminary animal studies have shown promising results, indicating potential for success in human trials.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: adult onset diabetes, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.