Brain scans reveal dopamine disruption in opioid addiction

NCT ID NCT03190954

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This completed study looked at how opioid use disorder changes dopamine signaling in the brain. Researchers used PET and MRI scans to compare people with opioid use disorder (some on medication, some not) to healthy volunteers. The goal was to understand differences in dopamine receptors and release, which may affect self-control and impulsivity.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: methylphenidate and placebo
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help researchers understand the brain chemistry behind opioid addiction, potentially guiding future treatments.
What could go wrong: This is an early-phase observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not lead directly to new therapies, and results may not apply to all people with opioid use disorder.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

opiate dependence

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

NORMAL PHYSIOLOGY OPIOID USE DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.