Could a better methadone dose cut opioid use after spine surgery?
NCT ID NCT03605901
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests two methods of giving methadone to adults undergoing complex spine surgery. One group gets a standard dose based on body weight, while the other receives smaller, incremental doses until breathing slows. The goal is to see which approach reduces the need for additional painkillers in the days after surgery.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- methadone
- What this could lead to
- If one dosing method proves better, it could help manage pain after spine surgery with fewer opioids.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-phase study with only 21 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Methadone carries risks like 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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
UF Health
Gainesville, Florida, 32610-3003, United States
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