A new method to deliver drugs that can prevent and treat opioid overdoses
Official title: A novel drug delivery system for the prevention and rescue of fentanyl and other opioid overdoses
Funded at University of the Pacific-Stockton · NIH-11043311 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to deliver a life-saving medication that can help people who have overdosed on strong opioids like fentanyl, making it quicker and easier to use in emergencies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of the Pacific-Stockton NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stockton, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $337,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA058024-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043311 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk of opioid overdose, such as those with opioid use disorder or those using illicit drugs that may be laced with fentanyl.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use opioids or are not at risk of overdose may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an innovative drug delivery system aimed at preventing and reversing opioid overdoses, particularly those caused by potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl. The approach involves creating a formulation that can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier, allowing for rapid absorption and action in the event of an overdose. By targeting the specific mechanisms of opioid action, this research seeks to provide a more effective antidote that can be administered in emergency situations, potentially saving lives. The study will involve both laboratory testing and clinical evaluations to ensure safety and efficacy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of opioid overdose deaths by providing a more effective treatment option.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been various approaches to opioid overdose treatment, this specific method of drug delivery is novel and has not been extensively tested in this context.
Where this research is happening
-
University of the Pacific-Stockton
Stockton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alhamadsheh, Mamoun M — University of the Pacific-Stockton
- Study coordinator: Alhamadsheh, Mamoun M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.