Investigating how emotional responses to pain affect opioid use disorder outcomes

Affective and Inflammatory Reactivity to Pain in Opioid Use Disorder

['FUNDING_R01'] · MCLEAN HOSPITAL · NIH-10454420

This study is looking at how feelings about pain can affect the behavior and recovery of adults dealing with opioid use disorder, especially how these feelings might lead to cravings for opioids and possible relapse, so we can better understand what helps or hinders recovery for people in pain.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMCLEAN HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BELMONT, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10454420 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores how emotional reactions to pain influence the behavior and recovery of adults with opioid use disorder. It focuses on understanding the relationship between pain reactivity and opioid cravings, which can lead to relapse. By examining the role of inflammatory responses in this process, the study aims to identify factors that contribute to the misuse of opioids among individuals experiencing pain. The methodology includes measuring emotional responses and inflammatory markers in participants to assess their impact on opioid use and recovery outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with opioid use disorder and experience pain.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have opioid use disorder or those who do not experience pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals with opioid use disorder, particularly those experiencing chronic pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that emotional and inflammatory responses to pain can significantly affect treatment outcomes in similar populations, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

BELMONT, 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.