A new opioid formulation that prevents respiratory depression and abuse.

Abuse-deterrence and prevention of respiratory depression by an oral opioid analgesic and doxapram combination

NIH-funded research Quivive Pharma, INC · NIH-10685942

This study is testing a new pain relief medication that combines hydrocodone with a small amount of doxapram to help manage pain safely while reducing the chances of breathing problems and misuse, making it a friendlier option for people who need effective pain management.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionQuivive Pharma, INC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rowland Heights, United States)
Project IDNIH-10685942 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel opioid medication that combines hydrocodone with a small dose of doxapram to provide effective pain relief while minimizing the risk of respiratory depression and potential abuse. The formulation aims to maintain the analgesic properties of opioids without the dangerous side effects associated with their use. By using doxapram, the medication is designed to deter misuse by causing unpleasant effects if taken in excess, while still being safe and effective for patients in the therapeutic range. The research has already shown promising results in animal studies, paving the way for human trials.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who require pain management and are at risk of developing opioid use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require opioid pain relief or those with contraindications to opioid medications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safer pain management option for patients, reducing the risk of opioid overdose and addiction.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with similar approaches in developing safer opioid alternatives, but this specific formulation is novel.

Where this research is happening

Rowland Heights, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.