Understanding the link between chronic pain and opioid addiction
Center for chronic pain and drug abuse
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY AT CHICAGO · NIH-10440289
This study is looking at how chronic pain and opioid addiction are linked in the brain, and it's for anyone dealing with ongoing pain, as it hopes to find safer treatments that help manage pain without the risk of becoming dependent on opioids.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY AT CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10440289 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic pain and opioid addiction are interconnected through the brain's reward system. It aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that drive this relationship, focusing on the effects of chronic pain on the brain's response to opioids. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques and studying both human patients and animal models, the research seeks to identify new, non-addictive treatments for chronic pain. The ultimate goal is to improve pain management while reducing the risk of opioid dependency.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing chronic back pain.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have chronic pain or those who are not at risk for opioid addiction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer, non-addictive pain management options for patients suffering from chronic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between chronic pain and opioid use, but this specific approach is innovative and aims to fill significant knowledge gaps.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY AT CHICAGO — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: APKARIAN, APKAR VANIA — NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY AT CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: APKARIAN, APKAR VANIA
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.