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.
Disclaimer
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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.
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.
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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
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Locations
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UF Health
Gainesville, Florida, 32610-3003, United States