Neurofeedback for Opioid Use Disorder

This trial explores a new approach to assist individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) who experience anhedonia, a reduced ability to feel pleasure. The treatment uses real-time brain scans (rt-fMRI neurofeedback) to determine if it can improve mood and personal memory recall in those already receiving methadone treatment. Participants will attend five sessions, with two sessions involving neurofeedback treatment. Individuals who have been on methadone for at least three months and struggle to find joy in activities might be suitable for this study.

As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance treatment options for OUD.

Research has shown that fMRI neurofeedback is generally safe and well-tolerated. In studies involving people with PTSD, participants managed the treatment without major problems and learned to control their brain activity during sessions. Although more research is needed to fully understand how this treatment works, current evidence suggests it is safe for use.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about using rt-fMRI neurofeedback for opioid use disorder (OUD) because it offers a unique, non-invasive approach that targets brain function directly. Unlike standard treatments, which typically involve medication-assisted therapies like methadone or buprenorphine, this method provides real-time feedback to help patients regulate specific brain activity associated with cravings and impulse control. By teaching individuals to consciously alter their brain patterns, this technique could empower patients with a new tool for managing their condition, potentially reducing reliance on medications and minimizing side effects.

Research has shown that real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rt-fMRI) neurofeedback can help reduce anhedonia, the inability to feel pleasure, in people with depression. This technique displays a person's brain activity in real-time, enabling them to learn how to change it. In this trial, participants with opioid use disorder (OUD) will receive rt-fMRI neurofeedback to explore its potential benefits for this condition. Although this is the first test in people with OUD, success in treating depression suggests it might be helpful here too. Early results in other conditions offer hope that it could enhance mood and well-being for those with OUD. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness specifically for OUD.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰