Ketamine-assisted therapy for opioid addiction
Official title: Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for Opioid Use Disorder
Run by University of Utah · NCT04892251 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether adding ketamine to a mindfulness therapy can help people with opioid addiction feel better compared to just the mindfulness therapy alone.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase1; Phase2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Utah Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Salt Lake City, Utah) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 20, 2021 |
| Main results expected | December 30, 2023 |
| Study ends | May 30, 2024 |
| Registry record updated | July 5, 2023 |
| Trial ID | NCT04892251 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are currently receiving treatment with a buprenorphine formulation.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of serious mental health issues or those who have previously participated in mindfulness-based interventions may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This pilot clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of ketamine as an adjunct to a mindfulness-based intervention for individuals with opioid use disorder. The study compares a modified version of the Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) that includes ketamine (MORE+KAP) against the standard MORE intervention. Participants will be individuals receiving medication for opioid use disorder, such as buprenorphine. The primary goal is to assess improvements in treatment outcomes with MORE+KAP, while the secondary goal focuses on understanding the psychobiological mechanisms involved.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance treatment outcomes for patients struggling with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of ketamine in addiction treatment is emerging, this specific combination with mindfulness-based interventions is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder 2. Receiving OUD treatment with a buprenorphine formulation Exclusion Criteria: 1. Previous experience with a mindfulness-based intervention program 2. Pregnancy 3. Any serious medical, mental, or cognitive issue that prevents successful participation in a mindfulness-based group treatment program 4. Prior use of ketamine other than as prescribed by a physician 5. Any of the following medical conditions Blood Vessel Disease Heart Valve Disease Heart Failure Class 2 or Above Heart Disease Pregnancy/Breastfeeding Arteriovenous Malformation History of Intracranial Bleeding or Stroke History of Seizures Hypoxia defined by current need for supplemental oxygen Liver Disease History of allergic reaction to Ketamine Dementia (moderate-severe) History of Psychotic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, or Personality Disorder Dissociative Identity Disorder
Where it's running
-
Center on Mindfulness and Integrative Health Intervention Development
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Eric L Garland — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Research Coordinator
- Email: eric.garland@socwk.utah.edu
- Phone: 801-581-3826
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.