Drug Discovery Centers

NIDA-IRP Medication Development Program

Therapeutic Approaches: Small Molecules

Therapeutic Areas of Expertise: Psychiatric Disorders

Center/Program Highlights:

The mission of the Intramural Research Program (IRP) of the National Institute on Drug Abuse is to conduct state-of-the-art research on basic mechanisms that underlie drug abuse and addiction, and to develop new methods for the treatment of drug abuse and addiction. Research is supported at the molecular, genetic, cellular, animal, and clinical levels and is conceptually integrated, highly innovative, and focused on major problems in the field. The long-term goal of the research is to better understand the biological and behavioral factors contributing to initiation, maintenance, and elimination of drug abuse and addiction (and associated diseases), and to translate this knowledge into improved strategies for preventing, treating, and reducing the negative consequences for the individual and for society caused by drug abuse and addiction. An important aspect of the program is the training of young investigators and career development of more experienced investigators in basic and clinical sciences related to drug abuse research.

Sources of Funding: Federal/State