Can a device replace pills for opioid withdrawal?

NCT ID NCT04325659

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Johns Hopkins University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a device called the Bridge, which uses mild electrical pulses to ease opioid withdrawal symptoms. 36 adults with opioid addiction were randomly assigned to get the active device, withdrawal medication (lofexidine), or a placebo. The goal was to see if the device could reduce withdrawal severity and keep people in treatment. Results could offer a new, drug-free way to manage withdrawal.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Bridge Device (neuromodulator device) and lofexidine (medication)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a non-drug option for managing opioid withdrawal, potentially improving treatment retention and reducing relapse.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 36 participants. The device was cleared based on safety, not proven efficacy, so it may not work better than existing treatments.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

opiate dependence opioid abuse substance withdrawal syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

OPIOID ADDICTION OPIOID DEPENDENCE OPIOID WITHDRAWAL OPIOID-RELATED DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit

Baltimore, Maryland, 21224, United States

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