Using xenon gas to help treat opioid withdrawal symptoms
Official title: Xenon gas inhalation as a novel treatment for opioid withdrawal syndrome
Funded at General Biophysics, LLC · NIH-11035534 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether breathing in xenon gas can help people going through opioid withdrawal feel better by calming their symptoms, and it's designed for those struggling with opioid use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | General Biophysics, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Wayland, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $400,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R41DA061962-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035534 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing opioid withdrawal or those who are not opioid-dependent may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of xenon gas inhalation as a potential treatment for opioid withdrawal syndrome (OWS). The approach focuses on how xenon can inhibit the sympathetic nervous system activity that drives the distressing symptoms of withdrawal. By partnering with established hospitals, the study aims to develop a safe and effective inhaled treatment that could ease the transition for individuals with opioid use disorder. The research will involve administering xenon gas in controlled settings to assess its impact on withdrawal symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for individuals experiencing opioid withdrawal, potentially reducing the risk of relapse and overdose.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using xenon gas for similar applications, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
General Biophysics, LLC
Wayland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ilin, Ilya — General Biophysics, LLC
- Study coordinator: Ilin, Ilya
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.