Guanfacine for Hyperalgesia

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byJianren Mao, M.D., Ph.D.

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?Combination of guanfacine with opioid medication as a standard treatment for chronic pain.

Eligibility Criteria

Adults aged 18-65 with chronic neck or back pain for at least 6 months, experiencing moderate to severe pain despite opioid treatment, and on a stable opioid dose. Excluded are those with substance abuse history, recent use of certain drugs like Methadone or Fentanyl, severe allergies to study meds, cardiovascular issues, pregnant/breastfeeding women, and those on conflicting medications.

Inclusion Criteria

I still have moderate to severe pain despite taking painkillers.

I have been on a stable pain medication dose for 3 months.

I have had chronic neck or back pain for at least 6 months.

+1 more

Exclusion Criteria

I have used Methadone, Suboxone, Fentanyl, or Tramadol in the past 6 months.

My chronic pain from conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis is more intense than my back or neck pain.

I am taking medication for high blood pressure that causes low blood pressure or slow heart rate.

+18 more

Participant Groups

The trial is testing whether Guanfacine can reverse Opioid-induced Hyperalgesia in people with chronic pain who are already taking opioids. Participants will either receive Guanfacine or a placebo alongside their standard opioid medication.

3Treatment groups

Active Control

Placebo Group

Group I: Guanfacine (1mg)Active Control1 Intervention

Subjects will be randomized into 1 of the following 3 treatment groups: 1. guanfacine (2mg) 2. guanfacine (1mg) 3. placebo Subjects will be instructed to take one capsule in the evening for 4 weeks.

Group II: Guanfacine (2mg)Active Control1 Intervention

Subjects will be randomized into 1 of the following 3 treatment groups: 1. guanfacine (2mg) 2. guanfacine (1mg) 3. placebo Subjects will be instructed to take one capsule in the evening for 4 weeks.

Group III: PlaceboPlacebo Group1 Intervention

Subjects will be randomized into 1 of the following 3 treatment groups: 1. guanfacine (2mg) 2. guanfacine (1mg) 3. placebo Subjects will be instructed to take one capsule in the evening for 4 weeks.