Could a tiny dose of buprenorphine boost social drive in schizophrenia?

NCT ID NCT05778591

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether a low dose of buprenorphine (0.15 mg) can improve social motivation in 40 people with schizophrenia. Participants will take either the drug or a placebo and complete tasks that measure their drive to seek or avoid social interaction. The goal is to see if buprenorphine can increase approach motivation and reduce avoidance motivation, potentially leading to a new treatment for social deficits.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: buprenorphine
What this could lead to: If it works, this could lead to the first medication specifically for social motivation deficits in schizophrenia.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 40 participants. The drug may not improve social motivation, or effects may not last. Buprenorphine can cause side effects like drowsiness or nausea.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

SCHIZOPHRENIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

UCLA Semel Institute
RECRUITING

Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States

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