Using dexmedetomidine to reduce morphine needs after breast cancer surgery

The Effect of Intraoperative Dexmedetomidine on Postoperative Morphine Requirements and Oral Intake After Breast Cancer Surgery

Not applicable Interventional National Taiwan University Hospital · NCT04454515

This study is testing if giving dexmedetomidine during breast cancer surgery can help reduce the amount of morphine patients need afterward.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Taiwan University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Taipei)
Trial IDNCT04454515 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of dexmedetomidine, an α2 receptor agonist with sedative and analgesic properties, on postoperative morphine consumption in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery. Participants aged 30 to 65 will be randomly assigned to receive either dexmedetomidine or a placebo during surgery. The study aims to assess the impact of dexmedetomidine on opioid requirements, postoperative complications, and gastrointestinal recovery. Data will be collected on opioid consumption, pain intensity, and nausea/vomiting through questionnaires.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 30 to 65 undergoing breast cancer surgery under general anesthesia.

Not a fit: Patients with major systemic diseases, difficult ventilation risks, or those who are pregnant will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce postoperative morphine requirements and associated complications for breast cancer surgery patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that dexmedetomidine can improve postoperative recovery, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients who fulfill the criteria of breast cancer under general anesthesia.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Major systemic disease, such as congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, end stage renal disease and malignancy.
* Patients who have the risk of difficult ventilation or intubation.
* Pregnant women.
* Coagulopathy.

Where this trial is running

Taipei

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Morphine Consumption
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.