Could a Low-Dose opioid blocker ease bladder pain?

NCT ID NCT04450316

Terminated Symptom relief Sponsor: Stanford University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 10, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026

Summary

This pilot trial investigates whether low-dose naltrexone (LDN) can reduce pain and urinary symptoms in people with bladder pain syndrome or interstitial cystitis. Participants receive either LDN or a placebo nightly for 8 weeks. The study measures pain scores, urinary frequency, and side effects to see if LDN offers a safe, effective treatment option.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: naltrexone (low-dose)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, low-side-effect option for managing chronic bladder pain and urinary symptoms.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early pilot trial with only 29 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The drug may not outperform placebo, and side effects are possible.

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.

interstitial cystitis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

BLADDER PAIN SYNDROME INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Stanford Health Care

Stanford, California, 94304, United States

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