Kratom
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
is warning consumers not to use Mitragyna speciosa, commonly known as kratom. Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, with leaves that contain compounds that can have psychotropic (mind-altering) effects.
People have used Kratom to overcome opioid addiction, chronic pain, and other health problems.
Reported health effects of Kratom use include:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The FDA is concerned that kratom, which affects the same opioid brain receptors as morphine, appears to have properties that expose users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and dependence. Symptoms of psychosis have been reported in some users. In addition, kratom products have been found to contain contaminants that produce effects not associated with kratom or kratom compounds alone, including heavy metals and harmful bacteria. Click on Related Links below to learn more about Kratom.
(Sources: National Institute on Drug Abuse, US Food and Drug Administration).
Learning Opportunities:
Can a Controversial Tree Help End the Opioid Crisis? (recorded)
Clinical Characterization of Kratom: Is It a Craze or Here to Stay? ASAM eLearning (recorded)
December 14, 2022: Introducing: "Kratom: An Emerging Youth Concern?"
Kratom 101 - A Viable Treatment or a Vile Substance? AACP (recorded - membership required to view)