From the Research
Kratom is generally considered bad due to its significant risks, including addiction potential, withdrawal symptoms, liver damage, seizures, and even death, which outweigh its potential benefits. The use of kratom has been associated with medical toxicity and death, although causality is difficult to prove due to the involvement of other psychoactive substances in most cases 1. Some of the key concerns with kratom use include:
- Addiction potential and opioid-like withdrawal symptoms on cessation of use 1
- Interaction with other medications and substances, particularly central nervous system depressants 2
- Lack of regulation, leading to variable quality and potency of kratom products and unpredictable dosing 2
- Reports of adverse effects, including liver damage, seizures, and death 3, 4
- Limited evidence for its therapeutic benefits, despite some potential uses for pain relief, opioid withdrawal symptoms, and mood enhancement 5
Given the availability of regulated medications with better safety profiles for conditions like pain and opioid use disorder, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss safer, evidence-based alternatives before considering kratom use. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2024, highlights the need for awareness of kratom exposure as a key contributor to the opioid crisis, with therapeutic benefits earned at the expense of potentially lethal side effects 5. Overall, the risks of kratom use generally outweigh its potential benefits, and caution is advised when considering its use.