Fentanyl's effects on vocal cord closure and new treatments for overdose

Fentanyl induces naloxone-resistant vocal cord closure: target validation and development of opioid overdose treatments using a peer-reviewed animal model.

['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] · TORRALVA MEDICAL THERAPEUTICS, LLC · NIH-11252024

This study is looking at how fentanyl and similar drugs can cause serious breathing problems that don't respond to the usual overdose treatment, naloxone, and aims to find new ways to help people who might be affected by these dangerous effects.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_2']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTORRALVA MEDICAL THERAPEUTICS, LLC (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PORTLAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11252024 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how fentanyl and its analogues can cause vocal cord closure that is resistant to naloxone, the standard treatment for opioid overdose. By using a peer-reviewed animal model, the study aims to understand the unique pharmacological mechanisms behind this phenomenon and develop new treatment strategies. The research focuses on the rapid onset of airway obstruction and chest wall rigidity caused by high doses of fentanyl, which can lead to fatal outcomes. The findings could lead to innovative therapies that effectively counteract these life-threatening effects.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of opioid overdose, particularly those using fentanyl or its analogues.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for opioid overdose that are effective against fentanyl-related respiratory emergencies.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on opioid overdose treatments, the specific focus on naloxone resistance due to vocal cord closure in fentanyl cases is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

PORTLAND, 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 →

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.