IPF Cough: Opioid-Based Approach Tested

Researchers examine oral nalbuphine for chronic cough in IPF, using objective digital monitoring and patient-reported measures.

1

A phase 2b trial tested an oral κ-opioid receptor agonist, nalbuphine, for treating chronic cough in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients.
2

Nalbuphine showed dose-dependent reductions in cough frequency, with a 60% reduction at the highest dose compared to 17% with placebo.
3

Improvements in cough severity and quality of life were noted in patients receiving nalbuphine at 54 mg and 108 mg doses.
4

The trial included 165 patients, with a median age of 71 years, and most were receiving stable antifibrotic therapy.
5

Adverse events were generally mild, with nausea and dizziness being the most common, and the study's limitations included a short treatment duration.

1