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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Science
Ian Sample Science editor

Virtual reality to be used in UK trial to help people beat cocaine addiction

CGI pub, with wooden chairs, wallpaper and no windows.
A virtual pub, one of the modelled scenarios that can trigger the urge for drug use in a safe environment. Illustration: Paolo Deluca

Researchers are building a virtual reality world to help people overcome their cocaine addiction by repeatedly exposing them to tempting scenarios in a safe environment.

The project draws on the experiences of drug users to create tailored 3D experiences, such as being alone in a flat or at a party with friends, where people can be immersed via a VR headset in realistic situations that trigger the urge to take drugs.

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