Perhaps you have seen signs at Gas Stations that are advertising Kratom or perhaps you are one of the growing number of Americans who have used this product.
Kratom is a tropic tree that originates in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar). This plant has long been used as a drug to produce euphoria, tackle pain and fatigue, and help counteract symptoms of opiate addiction. During the mid-20th century these Southeast Asian countries banned Kratom due to its addictive nature; however, it is now legal for medical use.
In the United States, Kratom is not approved by the FDA for medical use nor is it controlled under the Controlled Substances Act. Its legality varies on a state by state basis. This ambiguous categorization carries the potential for Americans to perceive Kratom as a safe, “legal high”.
Pharmacologically, Kratom contains two psychoactive ingredients known as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These are known to bind to mu opioid receptors; however, the extent to which these bind to the opioid receptors are still being studied. At low doses this drug has stimulant effects. At high doses it has sedative effects. The risks, toxicity to organs, and how Kratom compares to other opiates are currently unknown.
Patients often resort to Kratom when medical access to opiates is not feasible. Additionally, patients self medicate with Kratom for chronic pain or opioid withdrawal. Thus, medical professionals and scientists are faced with many questions at the hands of Kratom. There is a need to raise awareness of Kratom's role in today’s society as well as the potential risky nature of this substance.
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board