Investigating how delta opioid receptors affect migraine pain management

The role of delta opioid receptors in trigeminovascular pain

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11031331

This study is looking at how a specific type of receptor in the brain can help people who have headaches from using too much migraine medicine, with the goal of finding better treatments to ease their pain and improve their daily life while they stop using those medications.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11031331 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of delta opioid receptors in managing medication overuse headaches (MOH), a condition where chronic use of migraine medications leads to worsening symptoms. The study aims to develop targeted therapies that can alleviate severe migraines during the withdrawal period from these medications. By testing delta opioid receptor agonists in various headache models, the research seeks to identify effective treatments that improve patient quality of life and reduce reliance on traditional medications. The approach includes analyzing the interactions between delta opioid receptors and other pain-related mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing medication overuse headaches who are seeking alternative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who do not suffer from medication overuse headaches or those who have not used migraine medications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new, effective treatments for patients suffering from medication overuse headaches.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with delta opioid receptor agonists in headache models, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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 →

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.