Using ketamine and mindfulness to help people with opioid use disorder
Targeting Treatment-Resistant OUD with Ketamine-Assisted Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement
This study is looking at whether combining ketamine with mindfulness techniques can help people with opioid use disorder who haven't had success with regular treatments, and we're inviting those who are struggling to join us in exploring this new approach.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11045218 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the combination of ketamine, an FDA-approved anesthetic, with Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) to improve treatment outcomes for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) who are resistant to standard treatments. The study will involve a randomized clinical trial comparing the effects of ketamine combined with MORE against a placebo treatment using diphenhydramine. Participants will receive treatment while being monitored for safety and effectiveness, with a focus on understanding how this combination may help reduce drug use and enhance mindfulness. The goal is to provide a more effective intervention for those struggling with OUD who have not responded well to existing therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are currently receiving buprenorphine treatment but continue to struggle with drug use.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder or those who do not have a diagnosis of opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for individuals with opioid use disorder who have not benefited from standard therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results when combining ketamine with psychotherapeutic approaches for treating various mental health conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel application in opioid use disorder.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garland, Eric Lee — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Garland, Eric Lee
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 below.