A portable system to detect and treat opioid overdoses

An automated portable system for detecting and treating opioid induced respiratory depression

NIH-funded research Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-10796887

This study is working on a handy device that can quickly spot and treat breathing problems caused by opioid overdoses, using wearable sensors and patches that deliver medicine right through the skin, to help save lives when help isn't nearby.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTrustees of Indiana University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bloomington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10796887 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create an automated, portable system that can detect and treat opioid-induced respiratory depression in real time. It focuses on developing wearable sensors that monitor vital physiological parameters and therapeutic patches that deliver naloxone transdermally. The goal is to provide immediate intervention during an opioid overdose, especially in situations where traditional methods may be ineffective or unavailable. By enhancing detection and treatment capabilities, this project seeks to improve patient outcomes in critical situations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are prescribed opioids for pain management and may be at risk of overdose.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or those who are not at risk of respiratory depression from opioid use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of deaths from opioid overdoses by enabling timely and effective treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing wearable technology for health monitoring, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Bloomington, 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.