Examining how CDC guidelines affect pain management in older adults with dementia

Dementia and the opioid epidemic: The impact of the 2016 CDC guidelines on disparities in pain management

['FUNDING_R03'] · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · NIH-10975648

This study looks at how the 2016 CDC guidelines on prescribing opioids have affected older adults with pain, especially those with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, to see if these rules have made it harder for them to get the pain relief they need.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R03']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10975648 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of the 2016 CDC guidelines on opioid prescribing for older adults suffering from pain, particularly those with Alzheimer's and related dementias. It aims to understand whether these guidelines, intended to reduce opioid misuse, have inadvertently restricted access to necessary pain relief for vulnerable populations. The study will analyze disparities in opioid utilization among older adults, focusing on those with chronic cancer pain and acute orthopedic trauma. By examining these issues, the research seeks to highlight the potential negative consequences of the guidelines on pain management for specific subgroups.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who experience opioid-responsive pain.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias and do not experience opioid-responsive pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for older adults with dementia, ensuring they receive appropriate care.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated that guidelines affecting opioid prescribing can have significant impacts on patient care, suggesting that this investigation is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer's disease and related dementia, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia, Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder, Alzheimer's disease or related dementia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.