Spark Biomedical Receives NIDA Funding for AI in Opioid Treatment
- Spark Biomedical has been awarded a $318,875 SBIR grant from NIDA to develop an AI algorithm for opioid withdrawal detection.
- The project will involve collaboration with Battelle Memorial Institute and focus on collecting physiological data to enhance assessment accuracy.
- This initiative represents a significant advancement in the management of opioid withdrawal symptoms, moving beyond traditional subjective assessment methods.
Spark Biomedical has received a $318,875 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to develop an AI algorithm aimed at detecting opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This initiative is part of a clinical trial that will focus on data collection and the creation of a novel algorithm that utilizes physiological markers from sweat, such as cortisol and melatonin. The collaboration involves Battelle Memorial Institute, which will assist in compiling sensor and clinical assessment data into an automated detection system. Dr. Navid Khodaparast, the Principal Investigator and Chief Science Officer at Spark, emphasized the importance of this project in advancing the understanding of opioid withdrawal management. Traditional assessment methods have relied on subjective 'paper & pencil' evaluations, which lack the objectivity and physiological insights that this new approach aims to provide. By integrating AI technology with substance use disorder treatment expertise from Hazelden Betty Ford, the project seeks to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of opioid withdrawal assessments. The partnership with Battelle and Hazelden Betty Ford represents a significant step forward in addressing the opioid epidemic. The innovative use of AI in this context could lead to more proactive and precise management of withdrawal symptoms, ultimately improving patient care. Spark Biomedical's ongoing commitment to research and development in wearable neurostimulation technology positions it as a leader in the fight against opioid addiction. This funding and collaborative effort highlight the growing recognition of the need for advanced technological solutions in healthcare, particularly in the realm of substance use disorders. As the clinical trial progresses, it is anticipated that the findings will contribute valuable insights into the management of opioid withdrawal and cravings, paving the way for future advancements in treatment methodologies.