First bad reactions to energy supplement

Kratom is the new stimulant on the block—and it’s already claiming victims.

Poison centres across the US have reported an upswing in adverse reactions, which have even included death.  In 2023, there were 1,200 cases reported to the centres, up from just 19 in 2010.

Serious reactions include seizures, irregular heart rhythms, liver damage, and breathing problems. Nearly one in seven cases needed hospital care, and the reaction happened after taking just one dose, and one in 16 were admitted to a critical care unit, according to the latest figures.

Kratom is a supplement that is sold as an energy booster, mood lifter, pain reliever and remedy for the symptoms of opioids withdrawal.

It’s a herbal extract that comes from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa evergreen tree, which grows in Southeast Asia.  Users can chew the tree’s leaves, swallow or brew dry kratom, or add the extract to a liquid.  It’s also available as a supplement in health stores.

People who use kratom report that, at low doses, it acts as an upper, or stimulant. At higher doses, it reduces pain and acts as a sedative, and some use it to help with symptoms following opioid withdrawal.

What do you think? Start a conversation over on the... WDDTY Community