NIDA-Funded Webinar: Leading Expert Dr. Kirsten Smith Addresses Kratom-Derived Product Proliferation and Clinical Management

Why it matters

SAMHSA-funded educational program featuring leading kratom researcher Dr. Kirsten Smith addresses clinician gaps in knowledge about emerging kratom-derived products, offering evidence-based guidance for assessment and treatment.

The big picture

The Opioid Response Network (ORN) is hosting a free CME-credited webinar by Dr. Kirsten Smith, one of the nation's leading kratom experts with 90+ peer-reviewed publications and NIDA-funded research. The program covers the proliferation of novel kratom-derived products (7-OH, mitragynine pseudoindoxyl, and others), industry marketing strategies, and how clinicians can assess and treat kratom use disorder. It represents organized healthcare's effort to fill clinical knowledge gaps as products evolve.

Key findings

• ['Webinar covers pharmacology, toxicology, risks, and benefits of kratom and kratom-derived products', 'Speakers address novel compounds: 7-OH, mitragynine pseudoindoxyl ('pseudo'), kava combinations, MGM-15', 'Focus on clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of kratom use disorder using data-informed approach', 'SAMHSA-funded training available to clinicians nationwide via free registration', 'CME credits available: 1 AMA PRA Category 1, 1 AOA Category 1-A, 1 AAPA, 1 Nursing CNE']

What they say

Program description: 'This talk will provide a background on traditional kratom and an overview of the recent proliferation of novel, kratom-derived products. Industry marketing, confused media coverage, and dynamic government policy will be described, as all influence public health responses.'

Bottom line

**NIDA-funded expert webinar signals the healthcare system's recognition of clinician knowledge gaps regarding kratom product proliferation.**