Examining neurocognitive issues in women with stimulant abuse
Official title: Neurocognitive Abnormalities in Stimulant Abuse Among High-Risk Women
Run by The Mind Research Network · NCT05845333 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to see how stimulant abuse affects brain function and decision-making in incarcerated women, especially in relation to their personality traits.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 334 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Mind Research Network Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Albuquerque, New Mexico) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 1, 2022 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 8, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05845333 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are incarcerated women with a history of stimulant abuse and an IQ of 70 or higher.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with current major medical conditions, significant psychiatric disorders, or those who have used drugs in the past three months may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the neurocognitive abnormalities associated with stimulant abuse and psychopathy among incarcerated women. By utilizing a mobile MRI scanner, researchers will analyze the neural mechanisms involved in moral decision-making and how these may differ based on the severity of stimulant use and psychopathic traits. The study aims to extend previous findings from male populations to better understand sex differences in these conditions, addressing a significant gap in neurocognitive research related to substance use disorders in women. Participants will be stratified based on their stimulant use history and psychopathic traits to assess the implications for treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for women with stimulant abuse and related neurocognitive issues.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on stimulant abuse and psychopathy in men, this study's focus on incarcerated women represents a novel approach that has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Biological sex is female * Intelligence Quotient 70 or higher * Reading level 5th grade or higher * Able to speak and understand English Exclusion Criteria: * Uncorrectable auditory or visual deficits * Currently pregnant * MRI contraindication * Central nervous system disease * Current major medical condition * Hypertension with complications (e.g., stroke) * Diabetes with complications * Lifetime history of psychotic disorder * Self-report of psychotic disorder (with psychiatric hospitalization) in first degree relative * Drug use in past three months (Healthy controls only): * History of arrest * Substance use beyond light alcohol or marijuana use * Currently taking psychotropic medications
Where it's running
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The Mind Research Network
Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Carla Harenski
- Email: charenski@mrn.org
- Phone: 505-272-5028
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.