Kratom

Experience is Key in Kratom Cases

What is Kratom?

Kratom, or Mitragyna speciosa, is an herbal leaf from tropical trees in Southeast Asia. According to the Food and Drug Administration, Kratom is commonly used to self-treat pain, coughing, diarrhea, anxiety and depression, opioid use disorder and opioid withdrawal.  

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration estimates 1.7 million Americans aged 12 and older used Kratom in 2021.  

Side effects of Kratom use 

In some cases, clinicians reported seeing patients with a wide range of serious adverse effects including seizures, psychiatric, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and respiratory problems and even death. 

What does the FDA say about Kratom? 

Kratom is yet to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration. 

The FDA has warned against using Kratom for medical purposes until scientists evaluate its safety and effectiveness. The agency also says there are risks for abuse and addiction when using Kratom.  

In 2014, the FDA issued an import alert for imported dietary supplements and bulk dietary ingredients containing Kratom. The plant is not legally permitted to be sold as a drug, dietary supplement, or food additive for regular consumption in the United States.