A randomised double blind multi-site parallel arm controlled trial to assess relief of refractory breathlessness comparing fixed doses of Morphine, Oxycodone and placebo (MOP)
Research Overview
Breathlessness can be a frightening and overwhelming problem that is difficult to treat when all the underlying causes of breathlessness that can be treated have been exhausted. This is a problem affecting thousands of Australians every day. Many doctors around the world use morphine to relieve the sensation of breathlessness. The benefits of using opioids for treating breathlessness have not been defined in a way that to date has been incorporated into international evidence based guidelines and day-to-day practice. This study will allow the exploration of whether or not opioids (morphine) are more effective than placebo medication at relieving refractory breathlessness. Study patients will receive one medication for one week: sustained release morphine, or placebo.
Outcomes
The participant target cohort for this study was reached in 2015. The study is currently on hold and recruitment suspended while the results are being analysed.
Key Contact
Name: Palliative Care Clinical Trials Team
Phone: 9416 0000
Project Team
Lead Investigator:
- David Currow, Palliative and Support Services, Flinders University
Site Investigators (SVHM & CCH):
- Jennifer Philip, Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne
- Mark Boughey, Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne
- Peter Sherwen, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne
- Jennifer Weil, Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne
- Beth Russell, Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne
- Jo An Seah, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne
Research Nurse:
- Sally Kidd, Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne
Funding Source
Commonwealth of Australia Dept. of Health and Ageing;
The Palliative Care Clinical Studies Collaborative (PaCCSC)