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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
[Topical application of morphine and buprenorphine gel has no effect in the sunburn model]
1Universitätsklinik für Anästhesie, Allgemeine Intensivmedizin und Schmerztherapie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, A-1090 Wien, Osterreich.
Background:
The aim of this placebo-controlled double-blinded cross-over study was to investigate the antihyperalgesic effect of topical morphine and buprenorphine in the sunburn pain model.
Material And Methods:
The study was designed as a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over trial, separated into 2 parts each with 16 volunteers. In part A morphine dissolved in Ultrabas-ultrasic ointment at 3 concentrations (0.1, 0.2, 0.4%) and placebo ointment were applied to 4 UVB-induced erythemas on the thighs. In part B buprenorphine at 3 concentrations (0.01, 0.02 and 0.1%) and placebo dissolved in a gel for transcutaneous application, was applied to 4 erythemas on the thighs. Thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia were assessed in the respective erythema by standardized quantitative sensory testing and opioids were compared to the placebo.
Results:
Neither morphine nor buprenorphine showed any significant reduction of hyperalgesia in comparison to the placebo.
Conclusion:
The topical application of opioids in this form has no effect on inflamed skin.
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