- Kratom is a Southeast Asian herbal extract that has been marketed as an energy booster, mood lifter, pain reliever, and opioid withdrawal remedy, according to the Mayo Clinic.
- The supplement acts as a stimulant at lower doses to increase alertness and as a sedative at higher doses to reduce pain and anxiety.
- Despite being used to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms, kratom carries significant safety risks, including the potential for addiction.
- The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical purpose, and the DEA classifies it as a Drug and Chemical of Concern.
- Kratom is sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and online. While it’s not federally controlled under the Controlled Substances Act, several states have classified kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance, making it illegal to sell, possess, or distribute. Other states have age restrictions (18 or 21 to purchase), and some have banned it entirely. Some states have no restrictions at all.
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