Investigating how Kratom and Cannabis compounds affect neuropathic pain
Official title: Kratom and Cannabinoid Constituents: Mechanisms and Interactive Effects in Neuropathic Pain
Funded at Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-10745835 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how Kratom and Cannabis might work together to help people with nerve pain and anxiety, so if you're interested in natural alternatives to opioids, this research could offer some helpful insights for safer pain relief.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 7, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $433,710 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AT012566-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10745835 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain or anxiety who are seeking alternative treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing chronic pain or anxiety may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the potential interactions between Kratom and Cannabis compounds, particularly focusing on their effects on neuropathic pain and anxiety. It aims to understand the unique and shared pharmacological actions of these natural remedies, which are increasingly sought after by patients looking for alternatives to opioids. The study will involve laboratory experiments to assess how these compounds may work together and their implications for efficacy and side effects. By examining these interactions, the research hopes to provide insights into safer pain management options for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatment options for chronic pain and anxiety, potentially reducing reliance on opioids.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been increasing interest in the therapeutic use of Cannabis, this specific investigation into the interactions between Kratom and Cannabis is novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
-
Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ward, Sara J — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Ward, Sara J
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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This grant looks at how supportive brain and nerve cells communicate with pain-sensing neurons to understand and reduce chronic nerve pain in people.
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Parmodulins with Low Abuse Potential for Neuropathic Pain
A new class of pain medicines called parmodulins is being studied to help people with nerve-pain pain without high abuse risk.
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.