Comparing Morphine and Oxycodone for Pain Relief in Children After Surgery
Official title: A Comparison of Nausea and Vomiting in Postoperative Paediatric Patients With Patient-controlled Analgesia (PCA): Morphine vs Oxycodone (POPCORN)
Run by Murdoch Childrens Research Institute · NCT06186141 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether morphine or oxycodone works better for relieving pain in children aged 6 to 18 after surgery and how each medication affects side effects like nausea.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 6 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 690 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Murdoch Childrens Research Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Melbourne, Victoria) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 13, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 2027 |
| Study ends | December 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 21, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06186141 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are postoperative patients aged 6 to 18 who are suitable for PCA and have consent from their guardians.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with allergies to morphine or oxycodone, significant intellectual disabilities, or those requiring higher ASA scores will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The POPCORN trial aims to compare the effectiveness and side effects of morphine versus oxycodone when used as patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for pain relief in paediatric patients following surgery. Participants aged 6 to 18 will be randomly assigned to receive either morphine or oxycodone during their pre-operative consultation. The study will assess differences in the usage of antiemetics for nausea and vomiting, as well as any variations in side effects and pain relief requirements between the two medication groups. This trial is integrated into routine patient care using the hospital's electronic medical record system, minimizing additional burdens on participants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help determine the safer and more effective pain management option for children post-surgery.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited literature on this specific comparison in the paediatric population, systematic reviews in adults suggest that both medications are effective, indicating potential for meaningful insights in this novel application.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Postoperative patients who are appropriate for a PCA including those aged 6 and above and up to age 18 years. * Those deemed appropriate for either morphine or oxycodone by their treating anaesthetist. * American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) score 1-3 inclusive * Those whose parents or legal guardians have provided informed consent on the patient's behalf. Exclusion Criteria: * Any patients with an allergy, hypersensitivity, or contraindication to morphine or oxycodone. * Patients in the age group with significant intellectual disability or physical incapacity rendering them incapable of using the PCA device * ASA score 4 or above * Inability or unwillingness of parent or legal guardian to provide informed consent for the study.
Where it's running
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The Royal Children's Hospital
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sue May Koh — Murdoch Childrens Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Justine Adams
- Email: justine.adams@mcri.edu.au
- Phone: 03 8341 6200
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Comparing fixed-rate versus time-programmed decreasing IV PCA after surgery
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-
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This study will test whether an adjustable feedback IV patient-controlled pain pump can reduce opioid use and improve pain control compared with a fixed-rate pump for adults having elective surgeries.
-
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.