Drug combo may stop opioids from making pain worse after surgery
NCT ID NCT01594047
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether giving ketamine during surgery and methadone after surgery can prevent a condition called opioid-induced hyperalgesia, where painkillers actually make pain worse. 113 patients having open colorectal surgery took part. Researchers measured the area of increased pain sensitivity around the surgical wound and pain levels using a 0-10 scale.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
ketamine and methadone
What this could lead to
If successful, this approach could help reduce pain and the need for strong painkillers after surgery.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed study. Results may not apply to all surgeries or patients. Ketamine and methadone have side effects like drowsiness and nausea.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori
Milan, 20133, Italy