Understanding the effects of fentanyl on breathing and heart function

Investigating the mechanistic consequences of fentanyl-induced hypoxia and cardiorespiratory collapse

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-11138682

This study is looking at how fentanyl affects breathing and heart function, especially when someone has trouble breathing, to help improve treatments for people who have overdosed on opioids.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11138682 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, affects breathing and heart function, particularly in cases of respiratory failure. The study aims to understand the cellular and systemic consequences that occur after reversing the effects of fentanyl-induced respiratory collapse. By developing a novel model, researchers will observe how the body responds after resuscitation, focusing on vital organs like the heart, lungs, and brain. This knowledge could help improve treatment strategies for patients affected by opioid overdoses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced or are at risk of fentanyl exposure and related respiratory issues.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to fentanyl or similar ultrapotent synthetic opioids may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatment protocols for patients experiencing respiratory failure due to fentanyl overdose.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of opioids on respiratory function, but this specific approach to studying fentanyl-induced complications is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions addictive disorder
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.