Old gout drug could help people taper off opioids

NCT ID NCT04939623

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests whether probenecid, a drug currently used for gout, can reduce withdrawal symptoms in people with chronic pain who are voluntarily lowering their opioid dose. Researchers will enroll 40 adults and randomly assign them to take probenecid or a placebo for 12 weeks. The main goal is to see if probenecid is safe and tolerable in this group.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Probenecid

What this could lead to

If it works, this could provide a safe, existing drug to help people with chronic pain reduce their opioid use more comfortably.

What could go wrong

This is a small early-phase pilot study focused on safety and tolerability, not yet on effectiveness. The drug may not reduce withdrawal symptoms significantly.

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 Pain chronic pain syndrome morphine dependence opiate dependence substance withdrawal syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-••••

  • Contact

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

Locations

  • Richmond Road Diagnostic and Treatment Centre

    RECRUITING

    Calgary, Alberta, T2T 5C7, Canada

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

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