Breakthrough study aims to cut powerful painkiller use in ICU

This study tested if a non-opioid drug called nefopam, given through a continuous IV drip, could safely reduce the need for strong opioid painkillers in critically ill adults on breathing machines. Researchers compared the drug to standard pain care in 60 patients to see if it lowered opioid use while still managing pain effectively. The goal was to find a way to control pain with fewer opioid side effects like severe constipation, confusion, and low blood pressure.