Could a low dose of ketamine curb opioid cravings?

NCT ID NCT06943859

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: University of Maryland, Baltimore Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether low-dose ketamine can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in adults starting methadone treatment for opioid use disorder. Fifty participants will receive either a low or very low dose of ketamine four times over two weeks. Researchers will track cravings, depression, pain, and sleep quality for 90 days.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Ketamine (low dose)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a way to reduce opioid cravings and help people stay in treatment longer.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 50 participants. The very low dose group acts as a comparison, so the benefit may be small or not last. Ketamine can cause side effects like dizziness or dissociation.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

opiate dependence Treatment Adherence and Compliance

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

OPIOID-USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Maryland Addiction Programs and Affiliated Clinics
RECRUITING

Baltimore, Maryland, 21201, United States

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