Effects of fentanyl exposure during pregnancy on baby development

Understanding the effects of gestational fentanyl exposure on external morphology, neonatal opioid withdrawal, and brain volume, morphology and neurochemistry of offspring

NIH-funded research Wayne State University · NIH-11146841

This study is looking at how being exposed to fentanyl while pregnant might impact the growth and brain development of babies, using a rodent model to see if it causes any physical or behavioral changes in newborns.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWayne State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Detroit, United States)
Project IDNIH-11146841 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to fentanyl during pregnancy affects the development of offspring, particularly focusing on their physical and brain development. Using a rodent model, the study will assess various outcomes such as body malformations, brain structure, and behavior in newborns. The researchers will measure these effects through advanced imaging techniques and behavioral assessments to understand the implications of fentanyl exposure on neonatal health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women who have used fentanyl during their pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to fentanyl during pregnancy or those whose exposure was not isolated may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of health risks for babies exposed to fentanyl in utero.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research into the effects of opioids during pregnancy, this specific focus on fentanyl exposure and its unique impacts is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Detroit, 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.