Developing vaccines to combat fentanyl and its derivatives
Vaccines for fentanyl and its derivatives: A strategy to reduce illicit use and overdose
This study is working on a new type of vaccine that could help people by making their bodies fight against fentanyl and similar drugs, aiming to reduce their misuse and prevent overdoses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10906949 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to create vaccines that target fentanyl and similar compounds to help reduce their illicit use and prevent fatal overdoses. The approach involves selecting and optimizing vaccine candidates, manufacturing them under good manufacturing practices (GMP), and conducting safety studies. By inducing the body to produce antibodies against these opioids, the vaccines could potentially block their effects, making them less likely to be abused. This innovative strategy complements existing treatments for opioid addiction and overdose.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of opioid overdose, including those with a history of opioid use disorder or those in professions exposed to fentanyl.
Not a fit: Patients who are not opioid users or those who do not have a risk of exposure to fentanyl or its derivatives may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a long-lasting and safe intervention to significantly reduce opioid overdoses and improve public health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in developing vaccines against other opioids like heroin and oxycodone, indicating a promising potential for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pravetoni, Marco — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Pravetoni, Marco
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 below.