Exploring new treatments for pain after surgery using calcium channel inhibitors and alpha lipoic acid
T-type Calcium Channel Inhibitors and Alpha Lipoic Acid as Novel Therapies for Treating Pain Post-surgery
This study is looking at how two new treatments, T-type calcium channel inhibitors and alpha lipoic acid, might help reduce pain after surgery by calming down the nerves that sense pain, offering a safer option than traditional painkillers like opioids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10923597 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of T-type calcium channel inhibitors and alpha lipoic acid (ALA) as potential new therapies for managing pain following surgical procedures. The study focuses on understanding how these treatments can reduce the sensitization of pain-sensing neurons that often occurs after tissue injury. By targeting specific calcium channels involved in pain signaling, the research aims to provide safer alternatives to traditional pain medications, particularly opioids, which can have significant side effects and abuse potential.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing acute pain following surgical procedures.
Not a fit: Patients who do not undergo surgery or who have chronic pain conditions unrelated to surgical recovery may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective pain management options for patients recovering from surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating the potential for ALA to provide effective pain relief in post-surgical settings.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Todorovic, Slobodan M. — VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Todorovic, Slobodan M.
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.