The Effects of Naltrexone on Active Crohn's Disease
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2009-10-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
It is hypothesized that the opioid antagonist naltrexone will improve inflammation of the
bowel and quality of life in subjects with active Crohn's disease compared to placebo. In
order to test this hypothesis the following specific aims are proposed:
1. Evaluate the effects of low dose naltrexone compared to placebo on the activity of
Crohn's disease by the following end points: Crohn's Disease Activity Index (CDAI), pain
assessment, laboratory values (CRP and ESR), endoscopic appearance, histology, and
quality of life surveys;
2. Examine the effects of naltrexone given over 3 months compared to 6 months for
durability of response;
3. Determine the safety and toxicity of low dose naltrexone in subjects with active Crohn's
disease, and
4. Study the mechanism by which naltrexone exerts its effect by measuring plasma enkephalin
levels of subjects on therapy.
Purpose statement: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of low dose
naltrexone in a blinded placebo controlled study to determine the safety and efficacy of this
compound in those with active Crohn's disease.
Phase:
Phase 2
Details
Lead Sponsor:
Milton S. Hershey Medical Center Penn State University
Collaborators:
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) The Broad Foundation