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NCT05886582 · Virginia Commonwealth University

Transdermal Rotigotine as Adjunct to Behavioral Therapy for Cocaine Use Disorder

What this study is about

This is a randomly assigned, where neither patients nor doctors know which treatment is given, compared against an inactive treatment phase 2b pilot clinical trial to determine whether non-ergoline D3/D2/D1 dopamine (DA) receptor agonist rotigotine (RTG), in combination with treatment as usual, including individual or group behavioral therapy can a) reduce cocaine use and also b) increase brain activity in frontocortical areas of the brain, and, as a reflection of that - improve top-down cognitive control in persons with cocaine use disorder (CocUD). Rotigotine is a marketed non-ergoline D3/D2/D1 DA agonist (RTG, Neupro®) in the form of a transdermal patch that is FDA-approved for the treatment of Parkinson's Disease and Restless Legs Syndrome. The premise of this project was based on apparent beneficial effects of RTG in a different human population characterized by executive function (EF) impairment. In light of the deficits in EF common in persons with CocUD, RTG may hold the potential for cognitive improvement in persons with CocUD who are in treatment as usual to both attend to and retain psychoeducation concepts better. In addition, rotigotine may help these individuals in recovery maintain goals better, where goal maintenance is a crucial integrative product of successful EF.

View original scientific description

This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2b pilot clinical trial to determine whether non-ergoline D3/D2/D1 dopamine (DA) receptor agonist rotigotine (RTG), in combination with treatment as usual, including individual or group behavioral therapy can a) reduce cocaine use and also b) increase brain activity in frontocortical areas of the brain, and, as a reflection of that - improve top-down cognitive control in persons with cocaine use disorder (CocUD). Rotigotine is a marketed non-ergoline D3/D2/D1 DA agonist (RTG, Neupro®) in the form of a transdermal patch that is FDA-approved for the treatment of Parkinson's Disease and Restless Legs Syndrome. The premise of this project was based on apparent beneficial effects of RTG in a different human population characterized by executive function (EF) impairment. In light of the deficits in EF common in persons with CocUD, RTG may hold the potential for cognitive improvement in persons with CocUD who are in treatment as usual to both attend to and retain psychoeducation concepts better. In addition, rotigotine may help these individuals in recovery maintain goals better, where goal maintenance is a crucial integrative product of successful EF.

Interventions

DRUG

Rotigotine Transdermal System [Neupro]

Neupro® 2mg/24h transdermal patches for the first seven days, followed by the target 4mg dose for the subsequent 35 days (five weeks) of dosing up to the follow-up assessments, followed by two days of 2mg/24h ramp-down dose.

DRUG

Placebo

Placebo drug

Primary outcome measures

Cocaine-positive urine samples

Time frame: weeks 5 - 6 of transdermal patch treatment

comparison of cocaine-positive urine samples between participants randomized to transdermal RTG relative to participants randomized to placebo patches

self-reported cocaine use

Time frame: weeks 5 - 6 of transdermal patch treatment

comparison of cocaine cocaine use (by self report) between participants randomized to transdermal RTG relative to participants randomized to placebo patches

Who can participate

This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.

Inclusion criteria

  • Male or female subjects between 25 and 70 years of age.
  • Meet current DSM-5 criteria for Cocaine Use Disorder (CocUD), moderate or severe
  • Able to understand and comply with study procedures
  • Have positive urine result for cocaine metabolite benzoylecgonine (BE) during at least one screening visit (out of up to three visits, depending on participants' preference) AND/OR self-report of recent cocaine use (approximately past 30 days).
  • Have hematology and chemistry laboratory tests that are within normal limits, except that liver function tests must be no more than 2x of the upper limit of normal (if any elevation is above the limit - must be judged by the study physician to be clinically insignificant).
  • No clinically significant abnormalities on baseline ECG.
  • Be able to demonstrate an understanding of study procedures and follow instructions including behavioral laboratory and fMRI testing.
  • Women must either be unable to conceive (i.e., surgically sterilized, sterile, or postmenopausal) or be using a reliable form of contraception (e.g., abstinence, birth control pills, intrauterine device with spermicide, or condoms). Men will be advised to use condoms. All females must provide negative pregnancy urine tests before study entry, at each visit during the study, and the end of study participation.
  • Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18-45kg/M2 and weight of at least 50kg at screening

Exclusion criteria

  • Have concurrent secondary DSM-5 diagnosis of any psychoactive substance use disorder other than cocaine, alcohol, methamphetamine, nicotine, opioid, or marijuana use disorder.
  • Have a DSM-5 axis I psychiatric disorder other than substance use disorder, including but not limited to Bipolar I Disorder, Schizophrenia, or other psychotic disorder that require treatment with antipsychotics, or a neurological disorder requiring ongoing treatment and/or making study participation unsafe. Comorbid PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder will be allowed.
  • Consistent and regular (as opposed to intermittent, infrequent, or as needed) use of medications contraindicated for concurrent use along with RTG, or would confound the mechanism of RTG action and data interpretation. These include DA antagonists such as antipsychotic medications (especially neuroleptics) or metoclopramide.
  • Subjects with evidence or history of any clinically significant medical disorder including biliary obstruction, clinically significant hepatic disease, severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, or endocrine disease. However, controlled hypertension, controlled hypothyroidism, and cancer in remission over 5 years will not be excluded.
  • Have a history of seizures (excluding childhood febrile seizures) or loss of consciousness (e.g. from traumatic brain injury) for more than 30 minutes.
  • Have significant current suicidal or homicidal ideation or a suicide attempt within the past 6 months, based on the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS).
  • Be HIV positive by self-report or history.
  • Be pregnant or nursing or not using a reliable form of contraception if able to conceive. All females must provide negative pregnancy urine tests before study entry, at each visit during the study, and the end of study participation
  • Have any other illness, or condition, which in the opinion of the clinical co-investigator (Arias) would preclude safe and/or successful completion of the study.
  • Be allergic to rotigotine.
  • Have taken any investigational drug within 45 days prior to baseline
  • Demonstrate intolerance to, poor adherence to, or extreme skin irritation by daily application of known placebo "practice" skin patches during the screening phase
  • Current/pending criminal charges that may result in incarceration within the next 60 days
  • Self-report of allergic or other reactions to sulfites (e.g. in foods)

Where

  • Richmond, Virginia

Collaborators

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

Related conditions & keywords

Substance-Related Disorders

Frequently asked questions

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.

Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 29, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations

📊
1 of 40 participants interested
3% interest

See if this study fits

A short prescreen based on this study's listed criteria. A coordinator confirms eligibility — this is not a medical assessment.

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Study locations

Choose your preferred location, or select flexible during enrollment.

RECRUITING

Richmond

Virginia

Location available

Express your interest

Share your contact details and a study coordinator can follow up about screening.

Secure & Confidential

Your information is protected and will only be shared with the research team.

What participation can include

  • Study-related care provided by the research team
  • Close monitoring by medical professionals
  • Possible compensation for time and travel*
  • The option to withdraw at any time
  • Contributing to medical research that may help future patients

*Compensation varies by study. Confirm details with coordinator.

Typical next steps

  1. 1.Submit this form
  2. 2.Phone screening
  3. 3.In-person assessment if eligible
  4. 4.Begin participation

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Substance-Related Disorders Treatment Options in Richmond, Virginia

If you're searching for Substance-Related Disorders treatment in Richmond, participating in a clinical research study may provide access to innovative approaches under expert medical supervision. This study is actively recruiting participants in Richmond and surrounding areas.

Clinical trials offer participants the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments while contributing to medical research that may help future patients with Substance-Related Disorders. All study-related care is provided at no cost to participants.

Local Sites
1 locations in Virginia
Now Enrolling
Up to 40 participants
Quick Start
Screening available now

Why Consider a Clinical Trial for Substance-Related Disorders?

Potential Benefits

  • Access to new treatment approaches before public availability
  • Close monitoring by experienced medical professionals
  • Study-related care provided at no cost
  • Contribute to medical research for Substance-Related Disorders

What to Expect

  • Initial screening to determine eligibility
  • Regular check-ups and monitoring visits
  • Possible compensation for time and travel
  • You can withdraw at any time

Frequently Asked Questions About This Substance-Related Disorders Study

Important Clinical Trial Information

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial participation involves potential risks and benefits. Eligibility requirements apply and will be assessed during the screening process.

Study identifier: NCT05886582. For complete study details, visit ClinicalTrials.gov. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about your medical care or participating in clinical research.