Study on the Effects of Yohimbine and Hydrocortisone on Stress and Moral Decisions in Military Personnel

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What is this study about?

This clinical trial is focused on understanding how certain medications affect decision-making under stress. The study involves the use of two medications: yohimbine hydrochloride and hydrocortisone. These medications are being tested to see how they influence moral judgment, particularly in situations that mimic an acute stress response, which is a sudden and intense stress reaction that can occur in challenging situations.

The purpose of the study is to observe the effects of these medications on moral judgment in military personnel. Participants will be given either yohimbine, hydrocortisone, or a placebo. The study will monitor how these medications affect the choices made during tasks that measure moral judgment, such as deciding between different ethical options. The study will also look at how these medications impact working memory, impulse control, and risk-taking behavior.

Participants will take the medications in the form of tablets or oral powder, and the study will last for a short period. The goal is to better understand how stress and these medications can influence decision-making processes. This research could provide valuable insights into how stress affects ethical decisions and help develop strategies to manage stress in high-pressure environments.

1 joining the study

Upon joining the study, eligibility is confirmed based on age and active military status. Participants must be between 18 and 60 years old and actively serving in the military.

2 medication administration

Participants receive medications to mimic an acute stress response. The medications include yohimbine hydrochloride and hydrocortisone, both administered orally.

Yohimbine hydrochloride is provided in the form of YOCORAL 5 mg tablets. The dosage and frequency are determined by the study protocol.

Hydrocortisone is provided as Hydrocortison Teva 10 mg, film-coated tablets. The dosage and frequency are determined by the study protocol.

3 behavioral tasks

Participants engage in tasks designed to measure moral judgment. These tasks assess the number of utilitarian, deontological, and compromise choices made.

Additional tasks evaluate rationality in decision-making, working memory, impulse control, and risk-taking behavior.

4 completion of study

The study is estimated to conclude by May 5, 2025. Participants complete all required tasks and assessments by this date.

Who Can Join the Study?

  • Must be between the ages of 18 and 59 years old.
  • Must be an active duty military member.
  • Both men and women can participate.

Who Cannot Join the Study?

  • Individuals who are not within the age range specified for the study.
  • Individuals who are not part of the specified group of military personnel.
  • Individuals who are part of a vulnerable population, which means people who might need special protection or care.
  • Individuals who have any medical condition that could interfere with the study or put them at risk.
  • Individuals who are currently taking medications that might affect the study results.
  • Individuals who have a history of severe allergic reactions to the substances being tested, such as yohimbine or hydrocortisone.
  • Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Individuals who have participated in another clinical trial recently.
  • Individuals who are unable to provide informed consent, which means they cannot fully understand the study and agree to participate.

Where you can join this trial?

Verified and Recommended Sites

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Verified Sites

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Other Sites

Site Name City Country Status
Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht Utrecht The Netherlands

Want to learn more about this study or check if you can participate? Contact us.

Trial status

Country Status Recruitment Start
The Netherlands The Netherlands
Not recruiting
04.03.2024

Trial locations

Yohimbine is a medication that is often used to treat erectile dysfunction and sometimes to help with weight loss. In this clinical trial, it is being used to study its effects on stress and how it might influence the way people make ethical decisions. Yohimbine works by increasing certain chemicals in the body that can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, which can mimic the body’s natural response to stress.

Hydrocortisone is a medication that is commonly used to treat inflammation and allergic reactions. It is a type of steroid that can also affect how the body responds to stress. In this trial, hydrocortisone is being used to see how it might change the way people make moral decisions when they are under stress. It works by mimicking the effects of cortisol, a hormone that is naturally produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress.

Investigated diseases:

Acute Stress Reaction – Acute Stress Reaction is a psychological condition that occurs in response to a traumatic event. It typically develops within minutes to hours after the event and can last for a few days. Symptoms may include anxiety, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and emotional detachment. Individuals may also experience physical symptoms such as sweating, palpitations, and nausea. The condition is characterized by a temporary disruption in normal functioning. It is a natural response to an overwhelming situation and usually resolves on its own.

Trial ID:
2023-508731-31-01
Trial Phase:
Therapeutic confirmatory (Phase III)

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