Is kratom safe to use?

By Nina Chhabra on April 16, 2019

Kratom is a plant from Southeast Asia.  It is available as a herbal supplement that is often used to help patients wean off of opioids, or to use in place of opioids.  This is because kratom can produce opioid-like effects. 

Although kratom is a herbal supplement, it is generally considered not safe for use.  It has been linked to the cause of overdose in at least 91 deaths in 27 states as reported by the CDC.¹ Within this group of overdose, almost all individuals had tested positive for multiple substances, however, 7 individuals had tested positive for only kratom. Kratom also can have side effects similar to opioids, such as respiratory depression, nausea and vomiting, and can cause withdrawal symptoms once discontinued. Other side effects from use can include aggression, hallucinations, insomnia, and seizures.

At this time, patients should be warned to avoid the use of kratom as its effects can potentially cause harm.  Kratom also has the risk of abuse potential, and it can interact with other pain medications a patient may be taking simultaneously. The FDA has issued safety warnings and also advises against the use of kratom as a supplement.²

If you have any other questions regarding the use of kratom, send an email to naturalmeds@vivohealthpharmacy.com