Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Phase 4 Interventional Ages 3 to 17

Comparing pain control methods after tonsil surgery in children

Official title: Single-Dose Intraoperative Methadone for Pain Management in Pediatric Tonsillectomy: A Randomized Double Blind Clinical Trial

Run by Duke University · NCT06576830 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing whether long-lasting pain medicine like methadone works better than short-lasting options like fentanyl and hydromorphone for controlling pain in kids and teens after tonsil surgery.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Ages3 Years to 17 Years
SexAll
Enrollment440 (estimated)
SponsorDuke University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Durham, North Carolina)
StatusRecruiting
StartedNovember 21, 2024
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2028
Study endsJune 1, 2029
Registry record updatedDecember 5, 2025
Trial IDNCT06576830 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are children and adolescents aged 3 to 17 years scheduled for elective tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy.

Probably not a fit

Patients with chronic pain disorders, severe sleep apnea, or those requiring admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit may 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

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of long-acting opioids, specifically methadone, versus short-acting opioids like fentanyl and hydromorphone for managing postoperative pain in children and adolescents undergoing tonsillectomy. It is a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial that will include participants aged 3 to 17 years, who will be assigned to either methadone or short-acting opioids. The study will monitor pain management outcomes and potential side effects through daily surveys and follow-up calls for six months post-surgery.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for pediatric tonsillectomy patients, reducing the need for rescue opioids.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have explored opioid management in postoperative settings, but this specific comparison of methadone versus short-acting opioids in a pediatric population is relatively novel.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age \>= 3 and \< 18 years
2. Elective tonsillectomy +/- adenoidectomy
3. Signed informed consent by parent or legal guardian
4. Children \>= 12 years must provide signed written consent, Children \>= 7 years must provide verbal assent
5. Negative pregnancy test within 48 hours for post pubescent females

Exclusion Criteria:

1. History of chronic kidney or liver disease
2. Current diagnosis of a chronic pain disorder
3. Planned admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
4. Additional procedures under general anesthesia for which opioids would be prescribed

Where it's running

  • Duke University Medical Center
    Durham, North Carolina, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.