Investigating the risks of combining gabapentinoids with opioids

Gabapentinoid/opioid mixtures: abuse and toxicity

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11011496

This study is looking into how medications like gabapentin and pregabalin might affect the ongoing opioid crisis, especially when people misuse them along with opioids, to help improve safety and prescribing practices for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Antonio, United States)
Project IDNIH-11011496 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how gabapentinoids, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, may contribute to the ongoing opioid crisis. It aims to understand the potential risks associated with the misuse of these medications, particularly when used alongside opioids. The study will analyze data on opioid overdoses and the presence of gabapentinoids in these cases, focusing on their safety and potential for abuse. By examining these factors, the research seeks to provide insights that could inform prescribing practices and public health policies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are prescribed gabapentinoids or opioids, particularly those with a history of substance use disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use gabapentinoids or opioids, or those who have no history of related health issues, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer prescribing guidelines and reduce the risk of overdose for patients using gabapentinoids and opioids.

How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of gabapentinoids in relation to opioid misuse is a growing area of interest, this specific research approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

San Antonio, 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.