Plain-English translation of NCT05543694 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Phase 4 — The treatment has already been approved. Researchers are tracking how it works in a large number of people over time.
This trial is testing bupivacaine, a numbing medication given through an epidural catheter (a thin tube placed in the lower back) during labor. Researchers want to find the exact dose that provides effective pain relief for 9 out of 10 women during labor. The study compares two slightly different injection techniques to see which one works best with which dose.
Currently, doctors don't have clear guidelines on the best starting dose of this medication for labor pain relief. By studying different doses in this trial, researchers hope to find the most effective amount that relieves pain while minimizing side effects, so future laboring women get better pain control right from the start.
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If you join this trial, you will receive an epidural injection with the study medication during your labor. A small test dose will be given first to make sure the epidural is placed correctly, then you will receive the study dose. Researchers will check your pain level 30 minutes after the injection to see if the dose is working well. Depending on how you respond, the next participant may receive a slightly higher or lower dose — this helps researchers narrow down the ideal amount for most women.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 22, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States
Phase
Post-approval monitoring
Sponsor
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Enrollment target
~120 participants
Started
October 2022
Primary completion
June 2027
Age range
18 Years – 50 Years
Sex
Female only
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in July 2026.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Lawrence C Tsen, MD
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.