Epidural Fentanyl for Labor Pain
Trial Summary
Do I need to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but if you are being treated for chronic pain, you cannot participate.
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug fentanyl for labor pain relief?
Is epidural fentanyl safe for labor pain management?
How does the drug fentanyl differ from other treatments for labor pain?
Epidural fentanyl is unique because it provides pain relief during labor by acting directly on the spinal cord, allowing for effective pain management without impairing movement, so women can still walk around. This is different from other treatments that might limit mobility or require higher doses of local anesthetics.134910
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study is being done to investigate if there is more effective pain relief during the latter stages of labor and delivery when epidural fentanyl 100mcg is administered compared to epidural fentanyl 20mcg.
Research Team
John Coffman, MD
Principal Investigator
Ohio State University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for first-time mothers in spontaneous labor, with a single baby in the correct head-down position at term (38-42 weeks), who can understand and agree to the study. They should have effective pain relief from an existing epidural but no chronic pain issues, allergies to opioids or local anesthetics, spine problems, or history of spine surgery.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either low-dose or high-dose epidural fentanyl during the late first and second stages of labor
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for adverse events and satisfaction with pain control until postpartum day one
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Fentanyl
Fentanyl is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada, Japan for the following indications:
- Pain management
- Anesthesia
- Severe pain
- Breakthrough pain in cancer patients
- Pain relief
- Neuropathic pain
- Cancer pain
- Postoperative pain
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ohio State University
Lead Sponsor