Can a VR avatar help people stay off opioids?
NCT ID NCT05908097
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether a virtual reality experience where people see an avatar of their future self could help those in early recovery from opioid use disorder reduce drug use and stay abstinent. 104 participants were split into a VR group and a control group. Researchers measured opioid use, abstinence, and changes in future thinking over 30 days.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Virtual reality avatar intervention
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a new, non-drug tool to help people in early recovery from opioid use disorder stay on track.
What could go wrong
This is a small early-phase trial with 104 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The VR effect may be short-lived or no better than standard care.
Disclaimer
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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.
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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Locations
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IUSM - Goodman Hall
Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States
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Indiana University School of Medicine - Goodman Hall
Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States
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Serenity Lane Alcohol & Drug Treatment
Coburg, Oregon, 97402, United States