Understanding Opioid Pain Treatment for Metastatic Cancer

Opioid therapy for pain in individuals with metastatic cancer: benefits, harms and stakeholder perspectives

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11118820

This project looks at how opioid medications help or harm people with metastatic cancer who are managing pain.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11118820 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Many people with metastatic cancer experience pain, and opioids are a common treatment. While opioids are widely used, we don't fully understand their specific benefits and potential risks for individuals with metastatic cancer, especially compared to those with other types of chronic pain. This project aims to gather information on both the positive effects of opioids on pain and any negative side effects. By doing so, we hope to provide clearer guidance for patients and doctors to make informed decisions about pain management.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals with metastatic cancer who are experiencing pain and are using or considering opioid therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have metastatic cancer or are not experiencing pain would likely not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better guidelines and more personalized pain management strategies for individuals living with metastatic cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While extensive research exists on opioid use for non-cancer pain, studies specifically focused on the benefits and harms for individuals with metastatic cancer are limited and have methodological gaps.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Affective Disorders, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.