Understanding kratom use and its effects on health
Official title: Real-world momentary assessment of kratom use and laboratory-based observed cessation accompanied by product assays: Toward an interdisciplinary characterization of kratom use and pharmacology
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11064097 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how people use kratom, a plant that might help with pain and addiction, by gathering information about their experiences to learn more about its benefits and risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00DA055571-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064097 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who use kratom for pain relief or to manage withdrawal symptoms from opioids.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use kratom or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of kratom, a plant with potential therapeutic effects, particularly in relation to pain management and substance use disorders. It aims to assess real-world usage patterns and the effects of kratom through momentary assessments and laboratory observations. By analyzing the pharmacological properties of kratom's active compounds, the study seeks to understand both the benefits and risks associated with its use. Participants may provide valuable data on their experiences with kratom, contributing to a better understanding of its impact on health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer alternatives for pain management and treatment of substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the therapeutic potential of kratom, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Kirsten — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Smith, Kirsten
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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.