Although most of the overdose deaths cited in the report also involved heroin, fentanyl, or other common drugs of abuse, kratom was the only substance detected in seven of the overdose deaths.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a plant that is native to Southeast Asia. It contains the alkaloid mitragynine, which, when consumed in low doses, can have a stimulant effect. When it is consumed in high doses, it can have opioid-like effects and affects the same opioid receptors in the brain as morphine.
Kratom use has recently grown in popularity in the U.S. and is marketed as a dietary and herbal supplement. While many proponents of the substance swear by its effectiveness to ease symptoms of fibromyalgia, treat or manage pain, or to reduce symptoms of opioid withdrawal, research shows kratom has a potential for dependence and addiction.2,3
Kratom is not a controlled substance in the U.S., however, the FDA has issued warnings to consumers about kratom, citing “properties that expose users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and dependence.”4
Side Effects of Kratom
Currently, scientists aren’t sure of the long-term effects of kratom use on the human body and brain. However, the short-term effects of small doses of kratom can include:
- Increased feelings of happiness
- Decreased coordination
- Increased alertness
- Increased talkativeness and sociability
Large doses of kratom can produce other short-term side effects like:
- Euphoria
- Feelings of calmness
- Sedation
According to the CDC, chronic kratom abuse can cause:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Irritability
- Psychosis
- Seizures
- Liver damage
- Hypertension
- Drowsiness
- Weight loss
- Insomnia
- Concentration problems
- Hallucinations
- Death5
Growing Safety Concerns About Kratom
In addition to causing more overdose deaths than originally thought, American poison control center calls have increased dramatically in recent years. Calls about kratom spiked from just 13 in 2011 to 682 in 2017, drawing more attention to this substance people are using for the self-treatment of pain and opioid withdrawal.1
Additionally, since many overdose deaths involving kratom also involve other addictive substances, the use of the supplement with addictive drugs and substances is a serious cause for concern among users.
While federal law currently doesn’t prohibit the use of kratom, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has identified kratom as a drug of concern and some states have classified it as a synthetic drug or have banned all use of it.
Although more research is needed to further understand kratom’s long-term effects on the human body, it’s safe to say that kratom may pose a significant risk for people who are prone to substance abuse, who use it in combination with other substances, or who use it regularly.
References:
- https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6814a2.htm?s_cid=mm6814a2_w#T1_down
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27178014
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29248691
- https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-and-kratom
- https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/is-kratom-safe#use
Medical Sources and References
The information in this article is drawn from authoritative public health and medical sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. All statistics and clinical claims about kratom-related deaths and health risks are cited below:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Kratom-Involved Deaths: 27 States, July 2016–December 2017 — Official CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report documenting kratom-related fatalities.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): FDA and Kratom: Public Health Advisory — FDA statements on kratom safety, risks, and regulatory status.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Kratom DrugFacts — Research-based overview of kratom’s effects, risks, and addiction potential.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Resources on emerging drug trends and treatment options for kratom use disorder.
If you or a loved one is struggling with kratom use or any substance use disorder, Nova Recovery Center offers evidence-based treatment in Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Colorado Springs. Call (512) 893-6955 to speak with an admissions specialist today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom Safety and Treatment
How many deaths have been linked to kratom use?
According to the CDC, there were at least 91 kratom-involved deaths reported between July 2016 and December 2017 across 27 states. The majority of these deaths involved kratom combined with other substances such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol. While kratom alone can be dangerous, poly-substance use significantly increases the risk of fatal overdose.
Is kratom regulated by the FDA or DEA?
Kratom is not currently classified as a controlled substance by the DEA, but the FDA has issued multiple public health warnings about its risks. The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use and has cited concerns about contamination, adulteration, and the potential for abuse and addiction. Some states and municipalities have banned or restricted kratom sales.
Can you become addicted to kratom?
Yes. Kratom interacts with opioid receptors in the brain, and regular use can lead to physical dependence and addiction. People who use kratom daily may experience withdrawal symptoms—including irritability, muscle aches, insomnia, and cravings—when they stop. Professional treatment can help individuals safely detox and build long-term recovery skills.
Where can I get help for kratom addiction in Texas?
Nova Recovery Center offers comprehensive outpatient and inpatient treatment for kratom use disorder in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, Texas. Our programs include medical detox support, individual and group counseling, and evidence-based therapies tailored to your needs. Call (512) 893-6955 to learn more and start your recovery journey.
