What is kratom, the 'gas station heroin' alarming officials in the US?
Summary
Kratom is an herbal product used by some Americans to manage pain and other conditions. It has opioid-like effects and is legal in many US states but not regulated by the federal government, which raises safety concerns among health experts and officials.Key Facts
- Kratom is a tree native to Southeast Asia, used there for centuries as a stimulant.
- It entered the US market around 2016, mainly sold as pills, powders, or liquids.
- Kratom is often bought over-the-counter at stores like gas stations and vape shops.
- It is not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so its content and safety are unclear.
- Kratom's effects can include pain relief, stimulation at low doses, and opioid-like highs at higher doses.
- Risks include addiction, withdrawal symptoms, hallucinations, and serious health problems like slowed breathing and heart issues.
- Eleven US states have banned kratom, but it remains legal in others, including Mississippi.
- Recent deaths involving kratom prompted officials to warn about its dangers, though kratom was not confirmed as the cause.
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