Antibiotic may dull painful memories in PTSD and addiction
NCT ID NCT05902819
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether a single dose of the antibiotic minocycline, given before guided memory recall, could reduce the strength of intrusive memories in people with PTSD or cocaine use disorder. 138 participants took either minocycline or a placebo and then imagined a personal trauma or cocaine-related memory. Researchers measured changes in memory frequency, distress, and brain activity. The goal was to see if blocking a certain enzyme could help 'rewrite' troubling memories.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Minocycline (a common antibiotic) given as a single 200 mg dose before guided memory recall sessions
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a way to weaken traumatic or drug-related memories, easing symptoms of PTSD or cocaine cravings.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study with no phase designation. The effect may be small or not last. Minocycline is generally safe but can cause dizziness or stomach upset.
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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
-
University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, University of Zurich
Zurich, 8032, Switzerland
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