Can brain zaps curb opioid cravings? small study to find out.

NCT ID NCT04231708

Not yet recruiting Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Wayne State University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at how stress and brain stimulation affect thinking and opioid cravings in 20 people with opioid use disorder who are not seeking treatment. Participants will receive either real or fake brain stimulation (rTMS) and a stress-inducing drug or placebo. Researchers will measure changes in cognitive tasks, cravings, and stress markers to understand the brain mechanisms involved.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Yohimbine + Hydrocortisone
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a non-drug way to help people with opioid use disorder manage stress and reduce cravings.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study (20 people) that is not yet recruiting. It tests mechanisms, not treatment effectiveness, so results may not lead to a therapy.

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.

OPIOID-USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Tolan Park Medical Building

Detroit, Michigan, 48201, United States

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