A Study of SPG Block for Opioid Withdrawal

The sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) is a collection of neurons involved in autonomic regulation (which refers to bodily processes that are automatic like heart rate and blood pressure). Blocking the SPG is used to treat disorders, such as migraines or cluster headaches (short, severe headaches that occur together). The procedure will be performed by a doctor (specialized in ear, nose throat surgery) and would first involve the application of numbing nasal spray to both nostrils, which lasts about two hours and might reduce smell during that time. This is followed by an injection of a stronger numbing agent (similar to the type used by dentists) to the nerve bundles in the back of the nasal passages (one side at a time) via a tool, known as an endoscope which is a rigid tube with a camera on the end. The procedure is not painful. Previous studies have shown that clonidine, which inhibits the autonomic nervous system, is helpful for reducing the symptoms of opioid withdrawal. However, the dosing of clonidine is limited by side effects (lowered blood pressure and heart rate) and compliance. Furthermore, withdrawal is among the most significant barriers to substance treatment and ultimately overcoming a substance use disorder. Thus, we would like to explore whether a more targeted intervention would improve rates of successful acute detoxification while overcoming the aforementioned challenges of systemic side effects and compliance issues observed with the use of oral agents.

Inclusion criteria

• Opioid Use Disorder, moderate to severe
• Ages 22 to 50
• Lives in New York City, able to travel for visits
• Willing to be admitted to an inpatient unit

Exclusion criteria

• Medical disorder, for who study participation could be deleterious (neurologic, cardiac, renal or infectious disease
• Hypertension: BP > 150/100
• Elevated liver function tests (AST, ALT) > 3x normal
• Having a painful medical illness for which opioids are needed (including upcoming surgery).