Could magnesium replace opioids for trauma ICU pain?

NCT ID NCT04166877

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.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

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

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

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.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • UC Davis Health

    RECRUITING

    Sacramento, California, 95817, United States

    Contact