Using low doses of dexmedetomidine to treat respiratory failure from fentanyl overdose

Treatment of Fentanyl Overdose-Induced Respiratory Failure by Low-Dose Dexmedetomidine

NIH-funded research Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-10701905

This study is looking at how a small amount of a brain medication called dexmedetomidine can help people breathe normally again after they've had trouble breathing from a fentanyl overdose.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10701905 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how low doses of dexmedetomidine, a medication that acts on the brain, can help restore normal breathing in patients who have experienced respiratory failure due to fentanyl overdose. The approach involves understanding how fentanyl affects the body's ability to breathe and how dexmedetomidine can counteract these effects. Initially tested in animal models, the research aims to establish effective dosing strategies that can be applied in humans to prevent fatal outcomes from opioid overdoses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced respiratory failure due to fentanyl overdose.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to opioids or those with respiratory failure from causes other than opioid overdose may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the mortality rate associated with fentanyl overdoses by improving respiratory function.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to manage opioid overdose, but this specific application of dexmedetomidine is novel.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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.
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.