Study summary
An extended-release nalbuphine pill cut coughing by about half in lung fibrosis
53.4% vs 16.9%fewer coughs per hour at the middle dose vs placebo
What was tested
Nalbuphine extended-release, a pill acting on opioid receptors in a way that carries less addiction risk, at three doses against placebo for 6 weeks in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and chronic cough.
What they found
- Cough counts, measured by a digital monitor, fell 47.9% to 60.2% across the three doses, against 16.9% with placebo.
- People also reported coughing less often.
What it means
The strongest cough result yet in lung fibrosis, where cough is hard to treat. A trial in chronic cough without fibrosis is under way.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team.
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