Sugar water vs. steroids: a new battle against back pain

NCT ID NCT07757321

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Indonesia University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 11, 2026 · Last updated Aug 12, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether a simple sugar solution (10% dextrose) can match a steroid (triamcinolone) in easing pain from a herniated disc in the lower back. Adults with chronic back or leg pain for at least 3 months will receive one of the two injections right after a standard nerve treatment called pulsed radiofrequency. The study tracks pain levels, disability, and nerve-related pain over 14 days to see if the sugar solution is a viable, steroid-free alternative.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: 10% dextrose injection or triamcinolone injection, given as an add-on to pulsed radiofrequency treatment
What this could lead to: If dextrose works as well as steroids, it could offer a safer, non-steroid option to ease chronic back pain from a herniated disc.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with a short 14-day follow-up, so results may not be lasting or apply broadly. Dextrose may not match the steroid's pain relief.

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As listed by the trial registrant

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

HERNIATED NUCLEUS PULPOSUS PRF

Contacts and locations

Locations

RSUD Tarakan

Jakarta, DKI Jakarta, 10150, Indonesia

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