Could a common antipsychotic curb opioid cravings in cancer patients?
NCT ID NCT06200181
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether olanzapine, a medication typically used for mental health conditions, can reduce opioid cravings and misuse in adults with cancer who are on long-term opioid pain therapy. About 87 participants will receive either olanzapine or a placebo to see if it helps lower cravings safely. The goal is to improve pain management while reducing the risk of opioid misuse.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Olanzapine (also known as Zyprexa)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a way to help cancer patients manage opioid cravings and reduce misuse while still controlling pain.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small pilot study with only 87 participants, so results may not apply widely. Olanzapine can cause side effects like drowsiness and weight gain.
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
-
MD Anderson Cancer Center
RECRUITINGHouston, Texas, 77030, United States