Finding ways to improve breathing in patients using opioids

Recruiting active expiration to overcome opioid-induced persistent apnea

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10656563

This study is looking for ways to help people who have trouble breathing because of opioid medications, by finding new treatments that can make it easier for them to breathe while still managing their pain safely.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10656563 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance breathing in patients who experience opioid-induced persistent apnea (OIPA), a serious side effect of opioid medications. The approach focuses on identifying specific molecules that can stimulate active expiration, which may help patients tolerate opioids better while still managing pain effectively. By targeting certain brain regions involved in breathing, the research aims to develop treatments that could improve respiratory function without compromising pain relief. If successful, this could lead to safer opioid use and reduce the risk of overdose.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who are prescribed opioids and experience breathing difficulties as a side effect.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or have no respiratory issues related to opioid use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide safer opioid treatments that minimize the risk of respiratory issues and overdose for patients in pain.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in exploring respiratory interventions for opioid-related side effects, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.