Back pain breakthrough? study tests best anesthetic dose for epidural shots

NCT ID NCT00887003

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: McMaster University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study looked at 252 adults with chronic low back pain to find the best volume and dose of local anesthetic when combined with a steroid in epidural injections. Participants received one of four dosing combinations over three injections in 12 months. Researchers measured pain relief, disability, anxiety, depression, and side effects to determine the optimal approach.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: bupivacaine (local anesthetic) and methylprednisolone (steroid)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help doctors choose the best dose of anesthetic for longer-lasting pain relief with fewer side effects.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study comparing different doses, not testing a new drug. Results may not apply to all back pain patients, and some people may still get little relief or have side effects.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

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

CHRONIC LOW-BACK PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

Hamilton General Hospital

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

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