A Double-Blind, Randomised Study To Explore The Effect Of The Body'S Own Morphine-Like Chemicals On Exercise Induced Breathlessness In People With Emphysema

Abstract

There is evidence that morphine-like chemicals made by the body itself help reduce breathlessness. It is not clear whether this response is because of the effects of these morphine-like chemicals on the brain, in the lung or both. This study will help understand where these chemicals act to reduce breathlessness in people with emphysema during exercise. Subsequently, it will also help to understand whether small, regular doses of morphine safely further reduce breathlessness during exercise.