Reversing fentanyl-caused breathing problems without severe withdrawal
Dissecting the mechanisms underlying fentanyl-induced cardiorespiratory depression
This project tests whether drugs that block opioid effects outside the brain can quickly restore breathing after a fentanyl overdose without causing harsh withdrawal for people exposed to fentanyl.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11326319 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Fentanyl causes fast and dangerous breathing suppression, and the usual antidote naloxone can trigger immediate, unpleasant withdrawal. Researchers are studying drugs that act on opioid receptors outside the brain (including some medicines already used for opioid-related constipation) to see if they can reverse breathing problems without that withdrawal. Early rodent data show a peripherally restricted drug can restore breathing, and the team will explore how peripheral receptors contribute to respiratory depression and how existing peripheral antagonists perform. These experiments aim to guide safer antidote options that could one day be used by bystanders or clinicians without provoking strong withdrawal.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People at risk of fentanyl overdose or caregivers who might need a safer, less aversive antidote would be the main beneficiaries of this line of work.
Not a fit: Patients whose breathing problems are caused mainly by other depressants (like sedatives or alcohol) or those needing immediate clinical interventions may not benefit from a peripheral-only opioid antagonist.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to an antidote that restores breathing after fentanyl overdose without precipitating severe withdrawal.
How similar studies have performed: Some peripheral opioid antagonists are already used safely for opioid-induced constipation and animal studies show promise for reversing fentanyl respiratory depression, but this approach has not yet been proven in people.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moron-Concepcion, Jose a — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Moron-Concepcion, Jose a
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.