Ketamine Combined with Real-time fMRI Neurofeedback Training to Study Brain Changes and Cocaine Use in Cocaine Addiction

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the effects of combining ketamine with real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) neurofeedback training in adults with cocaine use disorder. This Phase 2 trial aims to explore whether the combination or individual interventions can reduce the percentage of days participants use cocaine. The study also investigates if neurofeedback training has lasting effects and if ketamine influences glutamate levels in a key brain area related to reward. Participants receive either a single intravenous dose of ketamine or a placebo saline solution over 40 minutes. They also undergo real-time fMRI neurofeedback training or a sham version, where they perform reward imagery tasks during 20-minute sessions repeated three times. The study compares four groups to assess the effects of each intervention alone and in combination. During the study, researchers monitor cocaine use days between weeks 5 and 7 after the first intervention visit. Brain scans measure changes in neurofeedback signals within 1 to 2 weeks after neurofeedback training and glutamate levels before and during ketamine or placebo infusion. Safety and effects are observed through these imaging techniques and participant reports throughout the study period.

Ketamine and Neurofeedback-Training: Effects on Neuroplasticity in Cocaine Addiction