Could magnesium replace opioids for trauma ICU pain?

NCT ID NCT04166877

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: University of California, Davis Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a continuous intravenous infusion of magnesium sulfate can reduce pain and the need for narcotic painkillers in critically ill trauma patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Researchers will compare magnesium to a placebo (normal saline) in 156 adults aged 18-99. The goal is to find a safer, non-addictive option for pain management in the ICU.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: magnesium sulfate (a mineral given intravenously)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a non-narcotic way to manage pain in trauma ICU patients, potentially reducing opioid use and side effects.
What could go wrong: This is a Phase 4 trial with 156 participants, so results may not apply to all trauma patients. Magnesium can cause side effects like slow heart rate or breathing problems.

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.

Acute Pain injury

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ACUTE PAIN TRAUMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

UC Davis Health
RECRUITING

Sacramento, California, 95817, United States

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