Looking to Stop or Reduce Meth Use? Join Our Study!
Researchers at the University of Colorado are studying whether deep brain stimulation could help reduce meth use and craving.
Have a history of meth use for 5+ years and failed treatments for meth use
Are interested in stopping or cutting down on your meth use
Are age 22-65
Fast Facts - Looking for participants who:
About Our Research Study
The University of Colorado is conducting a research study to learn more about the potential benefits of deep brain stimulation for methamphetamine use and craving. Meth overdose fatalities have seen a steep increase in recent times, and current treatments for Methamphetamine Use Disorder (MUD) have limited success. However, a few single case studies of deep brain stimulation (DBS) suggest it may reduce methamphetamine use and cravings. Our research team is using a controlled research design to help learn more about whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) may impact meth use or craving. Our researchers want to get a better understanding of how DBS can help individuals with meth use disorder. DBS, which involves surgically implanting electrodes in the brain, is currently used to treat various disorders, including Parkinson's and other movement conditions. The procedure entails a neurosurgeon inserting two thin wires into specific regions of the brain, which are then connected to a small device beneath the skin that delivers mild electrical stimulation. Researchers want to understand whether these electrical impulses can help curb the intense cravings associated with MUD. Join our compensated study and contribute to the advancement of MUD research today! |
To learn more about deep brain stimulation, watch this short video:
Additional Information
University of Colorado researchers are conducting this study to learn whether deep brain stimulation could be a safe and effective treatment for methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) in individuals with a history of failed MUD treatments.
You may qualify for this research study if you meet the following criteria.
Eligibility Criteria:
Eligibility Criteria:
- 22 - 65 years old
- Have used meth for at least 5 years
- History of failed treatments for meth use (including residential treatment)
- Interested in stopping or reducing meth use
- Use meth at least 10 days in the past month
- Live in Colorado
- No current diagnosis of depression, mania, or manic-depression
- No current involvement in criminal justice system that would prevent study participation
If you decide to participate in the study, you will have to undergo a surgical procedure to implant a brain stimulation device into your body. You will also be asked to attend follow-up visits which may include drug testing, MRI, behavioral therapy, and evaluation of the deep brain stimulation device.
Participation will last 12+ months following the surgical procedure.
Important considerations: This research study involves brain surgery, unknown risks, and a major time commitment (12+ months of participation). Participants must be willing to commit to 7 days of inpatient detox prior to surgery, brain surgery and a brief hospital stay following surgery, 30 days of residential substance use treatment following discharge from the hospital, and then intensive outpatient treatment for 12 weeks.
Participation will last 12+ months following the surgical procedure.
Important considerations: This research study involves brain surgery, unknown risks, and a major time commitment (12+ months of participation). Participants must be willing to commit to 7 days of inpatient detox prior to surgery, brain surgery and a brief hospital stay following surgery, 30 days of residential substance use treatment following discharge from the hospital, and then intensive outpatient treatment for 12 weeks.
Eligible participants will be compensated for some study procedures.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study. However, if you have an injury that is caused by this research or ask the study neurosurgeon to remove the DBS system, you or your insurance company will have to pay for that care.