Opioid System's Role in Placebo Effects for Pain

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byTor D Wager, PhD

Age: 18 - 65

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Phase < 1

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Trustees of Dartmouth College

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The current study probes the involvement of the opioid system in placebo effects on social pain, using the opioid antagonist naloxone. 60 participants who recently experienced an unwanted breakup will experience rejection-related stimuli and receive painful heat and pressure stimuli during fMRI scanning. Participants will be randomized to receive either a naloxone or saline nasal spray, and be informed that the spray is either saline, or an effective pain and negative emotion reducing agent.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults aged 18-55 who speak English and have recently gone through an unwanted breakup. They must not have psychiatric/neurological disorders, substance abuse history in the last six months, or any conditions that would interfere with MRI scanning. Participants should not be on certain medications or have metal implants due to MRI requirements.

Inclusion Criteria

I do not have ongoing or recent severe pain or neurological disorders.

I can read and cooperate with an fMRI exam.

You recently went through a tough breakup with your romantic partner.

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Exclusion Criteria

I am currently experiencing pain.

You have a history of using drugs or alcohol in a way that caused problems or dependence.

You are afraid or uncomfortable in small, enclosed spaces.

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Treatment Details

Interventions

Control Cream with Naloxone (Opioid Antagonist)
Control Cream with Saline (Behavioural Intervention)
Placebo Cream with Naloxone (Opioid Antagonist)
Placebo Cream with Saline (Behavioural Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe study tests how a placebo cream combined with either naloxone (blocks opioid effects) or saline affects pain and feelings of social rejection after a breakup. During fMRI scans, participants will face rejection stimuli and painful sensations while being told they're receiving a treatment that could reduce pain and negative emotions.

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Saline GroupExperimental Treatment2 Interventions

Participants will receive saline in the nasal spray.

Group II: Naloxone GroupExperimental Treatment2 Interventions

Participants will receive 4mg naloxone nasal spray.