Can a VR avatar help people stay off opioids?

NCT ID NCT05908097

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Indiana University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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.

opiate dependence opioid abuse substance-related disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

OPIOID USE OPIOID-USE DISORDER SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

IUSM - Goodman Hall

Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States
Indiana University School of Medicine - Goodman Hall

Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States
Serenity Lane Alcohol & Drug Treatment

Coburg, Oregon, 97402, United States

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