Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) awarded the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences $686,648 on July 15, 2026, under the Drug Use and Addiction Research Programs (CFDA 93.279) to conduct preclinical research on emerging halogenated arylcyclohexylamine (ACX) synthetic psychoactive drugs. The research will synthesize novel halogenated ACX analogues—including both classical phencyclidine (PCP)-like compounds and structurally complex variants with opioid-like actions—and characterize their abuse-related and neurocognitive effects using rodent behavioral models. Specific deliverables include drug discrimination studies, intravenous self-administration assessments, and neurocognitive impairment testing relevant to PCP-elicited psychosis. The project will conclude by April 30, 2031.

This proactive research initiative addresses a public health gap by developing preclinical profiles of emerging drugs of concern, as halogen-modified ACX compounds have recently appeared on illicit markets. By understanding how structural modifications to the ACX base scaffold alter pharmacological action and abuse potential, the research will inform drug policy and public health responses to novel synthetic psychoactive substances before they become widespread public health threats. The award represents NIDA's investment in basic research to anticipate and characterize new drugs of abuse.