Effects of kratom exposure during pregnancy
Official title: Kratom alkaloid exposure during pregnancy
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10800668 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how kratom, a plant some pregnant women might use instead of opioids, affects babies during pregnancy, to help provide better advice for moms-to-be about its safety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $224,392 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA055908-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10800668 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women who are currently using kratom or have a history of opioid use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or who do not use kratom may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, on fetal development when consumed by pregnant women. It aims to determine whether kratom alkaloids can cross the placental barrier and potentially cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns. The study will analyze various forms of kratom, including its traditional preparation and commercially available products, to assess their effects on both mothers and infants. By understanding these effects, the research seeks to provide clearer guidance for pregnant women who may be using kratom as an alternative to traditional opioids.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the safety of kratom use during pregnancy, potentially guiding better health decisions for expectant mothers and their babies.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research specifically on kratom's effects during pregnancy, studies on other substances have shown that understanding their impact on fetal development can lead to significant advancements in maternal and child health.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sharma, Abhisheak — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Sharma, Abhisheak
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.