Could a tiny dose of buprenorphine boost social drive in schizophrenia?
NCT ID NCT05778591
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.
Disclaimer
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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UCLA Semel Institute
RECRUITINGLos Angeles, California, 90095, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-••••