The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of a single administration of market-approved painkillers (tramadol, paracetamol) on the function of small vessels (RVA) and large vessels (FMD) in patients with osteoarthritis and in healthy people of the same age. Blood pressure and heart rate are also recorded.
Aim of the study
Painkillers, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids, have adverse side effects, and their use is associated with a well-documented incidence of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events. This is particularly worrying for a quarter of the world's population over the age of 35 who suffer from chronic pain, particularly arthritis, half of whom also have an established or high risk of cardiovascular disease.
Who can take part?
Anyone over the age of 18 who suffers from medically diagnosed osteoarthritis can take part.
If you are taking pain medication, you must be prepared to stop taking it 2 days before the study examinations.
Procedure
At the beginning, a questionnaire is filled out and a blood sample is taken. We then measure the vascular stiffness and dilation of your vessels in the upper arm (ultrasound device) and in the eye (eye camera). The measurements are non-invasive (no pricking, no puncture).
Following the 1st vascular function measurement, you will receive an infusion via one of your arm veins containing the respective painkiller according to your group affiliation. The entire measurement is then repeated (2nd vascular function measurement).
The entire examination takes place on a single day. The total time of all examinations is approx. 2 to 4 hours
Compensation
Travel expenses will be reimbursed, otherwise no further compensation
Original study name
OPIOVASC: Effects of opioid, NSAID, paracetamol treatment on sympathetic nerve activity, blood pressure, heart rate and vascular function in patients with osteoarthritis
BASEC number
2018-02229
Financial support from
University of Zurich; SNSF; University of Zurich