Understanding how opioids and sedatives affect breathing
Mechanisms of opioid and sedative-induced respiratory depression
This study is looking at how opioids and sedatives affect breathing and aims to find new medications that can help people breathe better while still managing their pain safely, especially for those who might have trouble with their breathing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10847428 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind respiratory depression caused by opioids and sedatives, particularly focusing on how these substances impact specific areas of the brain that control breathing. The study aims to identify new drugs that can stimulate breathing without compromising pain relief or causing withdrawal symptoms. By examining the interactions between different brainstem regions, the research seeks to develop safer pain management strategies for patients at risk of respiratory issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who are prescribed opioids or sedatives for pain management.
Not a fit: Patients who are not using opioids or sedatives, or those under 21 years old, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer pain management options for patients using opioids and sedatives, reducing the risk of respiratory depression.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been efforts to develop respiratory stimulants, this research proposes a novel approach that has not been extensively tested in humans.
Where this research is happening
Milwaukee, United States
- Medical College of Wisconsin — Milwaukee, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stucke, Astrid G — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Stucke, Astrid G
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.