Finding new ways to reverse fentanyl overdoses
Official title: Negative allosteric modulation of mu opioid receptors to reverse fentanyl overdose
Funded at Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-10952479 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to make naloxone, the medicine used to treat fentanyl overdoses, work better and faster by combining it with other compounds, which could help save lives in emergency situations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $237,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA061122-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952479 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk of opioid overdose, particularly those using fentanyl or similar potent opioids.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use opioids or are not at risk of opioid overdose may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments for fentanyl overdose, specifically by using negative allosteric modulators of mu opioid receptors. The study aims to improve the action of naloxone, the current standard treatment, by combining it with compounds that can help it work more effectively against fentanyl's potent effects. By exploring the use of cannabidiol analogs, the research seeks to develop a faster-acting therapy that could potentially save lives during opioid overdose emergencies. Patients may benefit from this research if it leads to improved treatment options for opioid overdoses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for reversing fentanyl overdoses, potentially saving many lives.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of negative allosteric modulators is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in enhancing the effects of existing opioid overdose treatments.
Where this research is happening
-
Trustees of Indiana University
Bloomington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mackie, Kenneth — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Mackie, Kenneth
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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.