How changes in hydrocodone regulations affect pain management in older lung cancer patients

The effects of hydrocodone rescheduling on pain management of older lung cancer patients

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-10599385

This study looks at how changes in the rules for prescribing hydrocodone affect older lung cancer patients' ability to manage their pain, especially for those who might not have easy access to care, to see if they are getting the relief they need or being switched to other treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hershey, United States)
Project IDNIH-10599385 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of the rescheduling of hydrocodone on pain management strategies for older patients suffering from lung cancer. By analyzing national cancer registry data linked with Medicare claims, the study aims to understand how this policy change has influenced access to pain relief options, particularly for underserved populations. The research will explore whether patients are receiving adequate pain management or if they are being shifted to alternative treatments, including non-opioid medications or stronger opioids. The findings could provide insights into disparities in pain management among cancer patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with lung cancer who may be affected by changes in pain management policies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with lung cancer or who are younger than the targeted age group may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for older lung cancer patients, enhancing their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown mixed results regarding the impact of hydrocodone rescheduling, indicating that this area is still being explored and may yield novel insights.

Where this research is happening

Hershey, 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 2026-06-13 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.