Finding new ways to prevent breathing problems caused by opioids
New brainstem targets for counteracting opioid induced apnea
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10661014
This study is looking for ways to help people who use opioids for pain relief but struggle with breathing problems caused by these medications, by finding new treatments that can keep them safe while still managing their pain.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10661014 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how opioids can cause breathing issues, specifically opioid-induced persistent apnea (OIPA), which has become a significant public health concern. The team aims to identify molecules that can block or reverse these breathing problems while still allowing opioids to provide pain relief. Using advanced techniques, they will analyze specific neurons in the brainstem that are affected by opioids to find potential therapeutic agents. This work is crucial in addressing the rising number of overdose deaths linked to opioid use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are prescribed opioids and may be at risk for respiratory complications.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or have no history of respiratory issues related to opioid use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent life-threatening breathing issues in patients using opioids for pain management.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on opioid effects on breathing, this approach of targeting specific brainstem circuits is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES — LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FELDMAN, JACK L — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES
- Study coordinator: FELDMAN, JACK L
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.