Kratom, a popular herb known for its stimulating and pain-relieving properties, has become increasingly easy to purchase in many parts of the United States. This accessibility has sparked debates over whether kratom should be more closely regulated due to its potential for abuse.
A new clinical trial set to begin this summer aims to shed light on kratom’s abuse potential by comparing it to the addictive opioid oxycodone. Led by Ynhi Thomas, a physician and assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine, the study will investigate whether kratom should be considered a therapeutic substance or if it requires stricter regulation similar to oxycodone.
Derived from the leaves of a tree native to Southeast Asia, kratom is available in various forms such as gummies, pills, and drinks, and is sold in a wide range of locations including vape shops and online retailers. An estimated 2 million Americans use kratom annually for purposes like pain relief, managing opioid cravings, and addressing mental health symptoms.
Despite its potential benefits, kratom has been associated with overdose deaths and addiction, particularly at higher doses. In 2016, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) attempted to classify kratom as a Schedule I drug, placing it in the same category as heroin. However, following public outcry, the DEA rescinded the decision, leaving kratom regulation primarily at the state level.
The upcoming study at Baylor College of Medicine could provide valuable insights for the DEA to reevaluate kratom’s scheduling. Christopher Verrico, the lead investigator of the study, explained that the DEA categorizes substances based on their abuse potential, with highly addictive drugs falling under Schedule I or II.
The clinical trial will involve at least 60 participants who will be randomly assigned to different groups receiving a placebo, oxycodone, or varying doses of kratom. By assessing how participants rate the effects of each substance, researchers hope to determine whether kratom’s pleasurable effects are comparable to oxycodone. The study is expected to cost approximately $5.5 million and will release initial findings in three years.
Despite potential budget constraints, Verrico reassured that the research is not currently at risk. The study aligns with the FDA’s efforts to research kratom, with recent findings suggesting that kratom leaf capsules are safe even at high doses. This innovative research aims to enhance understanding of kratom’s risks and benefits while informing regulatory decisions and public health policies.
As kratom continues to gain popularity, studies like the one at Baylor are crucial for guiding future research on its therapeutic potential for substance use disorders and other conditions. By fostering a deeper understanding of kratom’s effects, researchers hope to pave the way for informed decisions regarding its regulation and usage.
In conclusion, the upcoming clinical trial at Baylor College of Medicine represents a significant step towards unraveling the mysteries surrounding kratom and its potential for abuse. Through rigorous research and collaboration, the scientific community aims to provide valuable insights that will shape the future of kratom regulation and public health policies.
