Ritalin may help erase cocaine memories, early study suggests

NCT ID NCT05978167

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether methylphenidate (Ritalin) can help weaken memories that link drug cues to cocaine use. Fifty-one adults with cocaine use disorder will receive either methylphenidate or a placebo before recalling drug-related memories, while brain activity and skin responses are measured. The goal is to see if this approach reduces cravings and the return of drug memories, potentially leading to better addiction therapies.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Methylphenidate
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new cue-exposure therapy that reduces cravings and relapse risk in cocaine addiction.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small study (51 people) testing a single dose. It may not translate into real-world treatment, and methylphenidate can raise heart rate and blood pressure.

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.

cocaine dependence substance-related disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

COCAINE USE DISORDER SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

New York, New York, 10029, United States

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