Investigating the effects of prenatal oxycodone exposure on infants and their long-term outcomes.
Oxycodone, Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome, and Adult Abuse Liability
This study is looking at how being exposed to oxycodone before birth affects babies, especially those who experience withdrawal symptoms after birth, to better understand their development and behavior as they grow up.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10978315 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how prenatal exposure to oxycodone affects infants, particularly those born with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). It utilizes an animal model to study the impact of oxycodone self-administration by pregnant subjects, examining changes in offspring development and behavior. The study aims to identify potential long-term vulnerabilities and neurodevelopmental changes associated with opioid exposure during pregnancy. By analyzing specific brain regions and genetic factors, the research seeks to clarify the relationship between NOWS severity and adult outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include infants born to mothers who used oxycodone during pregnancy and are experiencing NOWS.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by opioid exposure or do not have a history of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment protocols for infants affected by opioid exposure, ultimately enhancing their long-term health and development.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited preclinical data on prenatal oxycodone exposure, similar studies on other opioids have shown potential for identifying long-term developmental impacts, suggesting this research could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts University Boston — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Byrnes, Elizabeth M — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Byrnes, Elizabeth M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.