Opioid trial for COPD breathlessness halted early

NCT ID NCT04004117

Terminated Symptom relief Sponsor: McGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested whether a low dose of fentanyl, a strong painkiller, placed under the tongue could help people with severe COPD feel less breathless during exercise. The trial planned to include 40 participants but was stopped early. Because it was terminated, we cannot draw clear conclusions about whether fentanyl helps or is safe for this purpose.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: fentanyl citrate solution (sublingual)
What this could lead to: If it had worked, this could point toward a new option for managing severe breathlessness in COPD patients who still struggle despite standard treatments.
What could go wrong: The trial was terminated early with only 40 participants, so we don't have enough data to know if fentanyl is safe or effective for this use. Fentanyl is a strong opioid and carries risks of addiction and side effects.

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

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD, severe early onset

As listed by the trial registrant

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

COPD

Contacts and locations

Locations

Royal University Hospital

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N0W8, Canada

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