Using Probenecid to Help with Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to alleviate symptoms of opioid withdrawal in adults with chronic pain who are tapering off opioid medications. The study will investigate the use of probenecid, a medication traditionally used for gout, to target a specific protein in the spinal cord that contributes to withdrawal symptoms. Participants will be monitored over a twelve-week period to assess the effectiveness of probenecid in reducing withdrawal symptoms as they decrease their opioid dosage. The trial is particularly relevant in the context of the ongoing opioid crisis in Canada, affecting individuals across various demographics.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adults with chronic pain. Age greater than or equal to 18 years on the day of enrolment.
2. Subjects are currently taking a daily opioid pain medication and planning to taper the dose.
3. Participants complete at least one voluntary opioid dose reduction in the twelve-week study period.
4. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) \> 50 mL/min
5. Capable of providing informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Allergy to probenecid or related drugs
2. History of uric acid renal calculi, if known to be urate calculi. If unknown type, then any history of renal calculi.
3. Known G6PD deficiency
4. Active gout in any joint
5. Current use of drugs whose exposure may be prolonged, or risk of toxicity increased when used in combination with probenecid:

   1. Penicillins, specifically ampicillin, penicillin G sodium, and piperacillin
   2. Carbapenems, specifically doripenem and meropenem
   3. Lorazepam, midazolam, nitrazepam
   4. Ketorolac
   5. Oseltamivir
   6. Methotrexate
   7. Mycophenolate
6. Current use of drugs which may mask symptoms of withdrawal:

   a. Clonidine, lofexidine, tizanidine
7. Current use of drugs which may diminish the effect of probenecid:

   a. High dose salicylates including greater than 325 mg PO daily of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)
8. Pregnancy or breastfeeding
9. Any major comorbid medical condition which might impair follow-up or result in a safety risk to the participant
10. Participation in another clinical trial investigating a drug, medical device, or a medical procedure during the 30 days prior to enrolment.

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Where it's running

• Richmond Road Diagnostic and Treatment Centre
  Calgary, Alberta, Canada Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Lori Montgomery, MD — University of Calgary
• Study coordinator: Tammy Eberle
• Email: tammy.eberle@primarycarealberta.ca
• Phone: 1-403-943-9900

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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.