Kratom in the News: Safety Concerns Skyrocket

Kratom is receiving increased attention from health officials, researchers, and regulators as reports of serious side effects and injuries continue to rise.

Often referred to as “gas station heroin,” Kratom is marketed as a natural product for pain relief, energy, and mood support. However, growing research suggests that some users may face significant health risks.

Why Are More People Concerned About Kratom?

Recent studies have discovered a marked rise in the number of kratom-related reports received by poison control centers all over the United States; federal data shows that the number of such cases rose from 258 in 2015 to over 3,400 by 2025.

Health officials have also reported increases in:

• Kratom-related hospitalizations
• Poison center calls involving kratom products
• Cases involving highly concentrated kratom extracts
• Reports of addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and overdose-related events

Reported Side Effects of Kratom

Even though manufacturers frequently promote kratom as a natural product, health experts still caution consumers regarding the possible risks.

Reported side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Liver damage
• Rapid heart rate
• Breathing problems
• Confusion and agitation
• Dependence and withdrawal symptoms

What Consumers Should Know

Kratom is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any medical use. The FDA has also warned that kratom products can vary greatly in strength, ingredients, and purity.

Because there are no consistent manufacturing standards, consumers may not know exactly what is in the products they buy or how strong those products are.

Health officials are also raising concerns about products that contain high levels of 7-hydroxymitragynine, often called 7-OH. These products can have strong opioid-like effects and may pose greater risks than traditional kratom products.

Beasley Allen Continues to Investigate Kratom Cases

At Beasley Allen, our attorneys are investigating cases involving serious injuries and health problems linked to kratom products. Public concern recently increased following the deaths of two University of Mississippi students. Authorities reported that packaged kratom was found during both investigations, although officials have not determined whether kratom played a role in either death.

We continue to investigate claims involving kratom products and believe companies should be held accountable when unsafe products cause harm to consumers.