Could a tiny dose of morphine prevent breathing mask failure in COPD emergencies?

NCT ID NCT04427826

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This early-phase trial tests whether a single low dose of morphine can reduce the chance that COPD patients in respiratory distress will fail non-invasive ventilation (a breathing mask). The study will enroll 24 adults with a COPD flare-up who need a breathing mask. Researchers will give one morphine injection at one of four low doses to find the best balance of safety and effectiveness. The goal is to see if morphine eases discomfort and improves breathing, potentially lowering the 15-30% failure rate seen with mask ventilation alone.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

morphine

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a way to make breathing support more comfortable and effective for COPD patients in the emergency room.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, small study with only 24 people, so results may not apply broadly. Morphine can slow breathing or cause sedation, which could be risky in these patients.

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.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

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

  • Emergency Department of Grenoble Alpes University Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Grenoble, Isère, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, 38043, France

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

    Contact

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