Could an antidepressant ease cancer pain? new study investigates

NCT ID NCT03574792

First seen Apr 23, 2026 · Last updated May 13, 2026 · Updated 7 times

Summary

This study looked at whether adding venlafaxine (a medicine often used for depression) to standard painkillers like gabapentin, methadone, and oxycodone can better manage pain in people with head and neck cancer who are getting chemotherapy and radiation. About 62 adults with stage II–IV squamous cell head and neck cancer took part. The goal was to see if the combination reduces pain and improves quality of life during treatment.

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Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Roswell Park Cancer Institute

    Buffalo, New York, 14263, United States

Conditions

Explore the condition pages connected to this study.