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.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for HYPERALGESIA are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Hyperalgesia Pain, Postoperative

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori

    Milan, 20133, Italy

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.