How chronic alcohol use affects pain sensitivity

Neural intersection of chronic alcohol exposure and pain

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10902527

This study looks at how drinking too much alcohol can make people feel more pain, especially when they stop drinking, and it aims to find out how the brain is involved in this process to help develop better treatments for those with alcohol use disorder.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10902527 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between chronic alcohol exposure and pain sensitivity, particularly during alcohol withdrawal. It focuses on understanding how alcohol use disorder (AUD) can lead to heightened pain experiences and how certain brain pathways are involved in this process. By studying animal models, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that contribute to pain in individuals with AUD, potentially leading to new treatment strategies. The study will explore specific brain regions and receptors that may play a role in pain modulation related to alcohol use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder who experience heightened pain sensitivity.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or do not experience pain related to alcohol withdrawal may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for individuals suffering from alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of pain related to alcohol use, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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 →

Conditions: Alcohol withdrawal syndrome

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.