Brain pacemaker tested for opioid addiction that Won't quit

NCT ID NCT04354077

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

Summary

This pilot study tests whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the nucleus accumbens can help people with opioid use disorder who keep relapsing despite standard treatments. Only 3 participants will receive the implanted device. The main goal is to see if it is safe and whether it can help them stop using opioids.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

deep brain stimulation device

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for people with severe opioid addiction that hasn't responded to other therapies.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, tiny pilot study with only 3 people. It is designed mainly to check safety, not effectiveness. Brain surgery carries serious risks like infection or bleeding.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Behavior, Addictive opiate dependence

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • AHN Allegheny General Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15212, United States

    Contact

    Contact

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

    Contact

    Contact

    Contact

    Contact