New drug combo aims to cut opioid use after spine surgery

NCT ID NCT07365800

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether giving a mix of three drugs (methadone, dexmedetomidine, and ketamine) during complex spine surgery can lower pain and reduce the need for opioid painkillers afterward. About 248 adults aged 18-79 having surgery on three or more spine levels will take part. The goal is to see if this combination works better than standard care.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
methadone, dexmedetomidine, and ketamine combination
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a better way to manage pain after spine surgery, reducing the need for strong opioids.
What could go wrong
This is a single-center Phase 4 study, so results may not apply to all hospitals. The drug combo may cause side effects like drowsiness or heart rhythm changes.

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

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As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University Hospital

    Columbia, Missouri, 65212, United States

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