From the Research
Kratom is not technically an opiate, though it has similar effects, and is more accurately described as an opioid receptor agonist or having "opioid-like" properties. Opiates specifically refer to drugs derived directly from the opium poppy plant, while kratom comes from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. However, kratom does contain compounds (mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine) that act on opioid receptors in the brain, producing some similar effects to opiates like pain relief, sedation, and euphoria. Some of the key points to consider when evaluating kratom include:
- Kratom's potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms, as well as its potential to cause dependence and side effects including nausea, constipation, dizziness, and in some cases, more serious health problems 1, 2, 3.
- The lack of controlled, standardized studies on kratom, which limits its clinical utility and poses numerous health risks to consumers 1.
- The FDA's warnings about the potential risks of kratom and its lack of approval for any medical use 4, 5, 3. It is essential to prioritize the single most recent and highest quality study, which in this case is the 2024 study published in Cureus 2. This study provides a comprehensive review of the possible clinical uses and dangers of kratom, highlighting its potential for addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and side effects, as well as its lack of approval for any medical use. In terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, it is crucial to consider the potential risks and benefits of kratom use. While some studies suggest that kratom may have potential therapeutic uses, such as treating chronic pain, depression, and anxiety, the lack of controlled studies and the potential for addiction and side effects must be carefully weighed against any potential benefits 1, 2. Overall, the use of kratom should be approached with caution, and patients should be carefully monitored for potential side effects and addiction. Further research is needed to fully understand the clinical utility and risks of kratom, and to determine its potential role in the treatment of various medical conditions 1, 2, 3.