OXY-KLH

**OXY-KLH** is an investigational anti-oxycodone conjugate vaccine being studied for **oxycodone use disorder** and related opioid misuse. It consists of an **oxycodone hapten** chemically linked to **keyhole limpet hemocyanin**, an immunogenic carrier protein, typically with a linker such as a C6-position tetraglycine derivative. After immunization, the vaccine induces **oxycodone-specific antibodies** that bind circulating oxycodone in the blood, thereby reducing drug penetration into the brain and attenuating oxycodone's reinforcing and analgesic effects. Published preclinical studies in rodents have shown reduced oxycodone self-administration, prevention of oxycodone-seeking acquisition, decreased antinociception, and reduced brain distribution of oxycodone. Development appears to be primarily investigator-led in academia, especially by groups associated with Marco Pravetoni and Paul Pentel, with no clearly identified commercial pharmaceutical developer.

Other names

keyhole limpet hemocyanin + oxycodoneoxycodone conjugate vaccineoxycodone-keyhole limpet hemocyanin conjugate vaccine