Investigating how kratom affects HIV medication metabolism

In vitro assessment of kratom pharmacokinetic CYP interactions with HIV ART drug metabolism

NIH-funded research Auburn University at Auburn · NIH-10891675

This study is looking at how kratom, a herbal supplement that some people with HIV/AIDS use, might affect the way their HIV medications work in the body, to help ensure those treatments are safe and effective.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAuburn University at Auburn NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Auburn, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10891675 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the potential interactions between kratom, a popular botanical used by many individuals, including those living with HIV/AIDS, and antiretroviral therapies (ART) used to treat HIV. The study aims to understand how kratom may influence the metabolism of these medications, which is crucial for ensuring their effectiveness and safety. By conducting preclinical assays, the researchers will evaluate the effects of kratom and its active compound, mitragynine, on liver enzymes that metabolize ART drugs. This research is particularly important given the increasing use of kratom and its potential safety implications for patients on HIV treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV/AIDS who also use kratom or are considering its use.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use kratom or are not on HIV antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety and efficacy of HIV treatments for patients who use kratom.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been limited studies on kratom's interactions with drug metabolism, this research aims to fill a significant knowledge gap, making it a novel investigation.

Where this research is happening

Auburn, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.