Starting methadone treatment for hospitalized patients with opioid use disorder
Official title: Methadone Loading Dose Initiation for Hospitalized Patients with Opioid Use Disorder Using Fentanyl
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11033663 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the best ways to start methadone treatment for people in the hospital who are struggling with opioid use, especially those using fentanyl, to help them feel better and stay in treatment longer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,903 |
| NIH project number | 1K23DA062008-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033663 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are hospitalized patients diagnosed with opioid use disorder, particularly those who have been using fentanyl.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not hospitalized or those who do not have a diagnosis of opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to effectively initiate methadone treatment for patients hospitalized due to opioid use disorder, particularly those using fentanyl. The approach focuses on understanding the appropriate loading doses of methadone to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and improve patient outcomes. The study aims to enhance patient-centered care by addressing the challenges faced during hospitalizations, such as low satisfaction and high rates of early discharge. By developing better dosing strategies, the research seeks to ensure that more patients receive the necessary medication for their recovery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment protocols for opioid use disorder, resulting in better recovery outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that effective dosing of methadone can significantly improve outcomes for patients with opioid use disorder, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thakrar, Ashish Prakash — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Thakrar, Ashish Prakash
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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.