PET scans reveal Cocaine's brain impact
NCT ID NCT04721418
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study uses PET scans with a special tracer to measure brain synapse density in 80 people—some with cocaine use disorder and some healthy controls. Researchers aim to see if cocaine changes brain connections, especially in areas linked to decision-making and addiction. Participants will be followed over time to track changes during abstinence.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- 11C-UCB-J (a radioactive tracer for PET scans)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could reveal how cocaine changes brain connections, pointing toward new targets for addiction treatment.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not find clear differences or lead directly to therapies.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Connecticut Mental Health Center
RECRUITINGNew Haven, Connecticut, 06519, United States
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