Using virtual reality to help people recover from opioid addiction

Virtual Reality Facilitation of Recovery from Opioid Use Disorder

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RELATE XR, LLC · NIH-10390733

This study is testing a new virtual reality program to help people recovering from opioid use disorder by making it easier for them to focus on their future and stay away from opioids.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRELATE XR, LLC (nih funded)
Locations1 site (INDIANAPOLIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10390733 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel virtual reality intervention aimed at assisting individuals recovering from opioid use disorder (OUD). The approach involves a pilot randomized clinical trial that tests the effectiveness of this immersive experience in reducing opioid use and promoting abstinence. By enhancing participants' ability to visualize their future and focus on long-term goals, the study seeks to improve recovery outcomes for those in early stages of OUD. The intervention is designed to engage brain networks that support decision-making and future planning, which are often impaired in individuals with addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals in the early stages of recovery from opioid use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently recovering from opioid use disorder or those with severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new therapeutic tool to significantly improve recovery rates for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar virtual reality approaches in enhancing recovery outcomes for substance use disorders.

Where this research is happening

INDIANAPOLIS, 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: Behavior Disorders, behavioral disorder

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.