Real-time fMRI Neurofeedback for Anhedonia in Methadone-Treated Opioid Use Disorder
Official title: Neurofeedback to Reduce Anhedonia and Improve Outcomes in Opioid Use Disorder: a Feasibility Study
Run by Yale University · NCT07768007 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This feasibility study tests a real-time fMRI neurofeedback approach to see if it helps reduce anhedonia in people on methadone for opioid use disorder.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 3 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Yale University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (New Haven, Connecticut) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 8, 2026 |
| Main results expected | February 2027 |
| Study ends | February 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 14, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07768007 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults on methadone treatment for at least three months who have anhedonia and show potential for memory recall improvement are suitable candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals without measurable anhedonia or those unable to complete MRI screening may not benefit from this intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This first-in-human feasibility study collects initial data on a real-time fMRI neurofeedback protocol aimed at treating anhedonia in individuals with opioid use disorder who are receiving methadone. The study will evaluate tolerability and gather preliminary data from 2-3 participants on changes in anhedonia, autobiographical memory recall, and sense of meaning in life. Participants must be on methadone treatment for at least three months and exhibit anhedonia and room for improvement in memory recall. The research will be conducted at Yale University with the APT Foundation in New Haven, CT, and uses rt-fMRI neurofeedback to modulate targeted brain activity. This early-stage work seeks to determine whether the intervention is feasible and safe in this population before larger trials.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a new way to reduce anhedonia and improve quality of life for people with OUD on methadone.
How similar studies have gone: Prior neurofeedback approaches have shown promise for mood-related symptoms in other conditions, but this is an early feasibility effort in OUD.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * ≥3 months of methadone treatment for OUD * Presence of anhedonia, as assessed via SHAPS * Room for improvement in specific autobiographical memory recall, as assessed via AMT Exclusion Criteria: * Failure to pass an MRI screening * Women who are pregnant * Psychosis, as assessed via Yale PRIME Early Psychosis Screening Test * Serious suicidal ideation * Serious medical condition * Legally blind
Where it's running
-
APT Foundation
New Haven, Connecticut, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Michelle Hampson, PhD — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Sarah Paprotna
- Email: sarah.paprotna@yale.edu
- Phone: +1 (203) 737-5994
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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.