Kratom Toxicity and Its Health Impacts

What is Mitragynine Used For?

Mitragynine is mainly used as a pain relief herb that cures chronic pain and improves mood. It is also used as an alternative to opioids due to its mood booster tendencies. People chew Kratom leaves directly or brew them to make tea. It has also proven effective in overcoming addiction by helping in the management of withdrawal symptoms. It helps in curing depression by relaxing the mind and body. Since it activates the opioid receptors in the mind, it may have some addictive side effects that are yet to be discovered. Therefore, frequent use is discouraged to avoid dependence and Kratom poisoning. 

Pharmacodynamics of Mitragynine

Low doses of Mitragynine lead to improved stamina, energy, and mood. This happens due to Mitragynine’s interaction with the opioid receptors in the body, leading to a boost in happy hormones, i.e. serotonin and dopamine. It also produces an adrenaline rush, enhancing stamina and energy. Higher doses of Kratom risk health, and it impacts the pain receptors, relieving patients experiencing chronic pains. It also helps with the inflammation and depression resulting from the chronic pains. Ultimately, it helps boost mood by producing happy hormones in the body with low side effects. 

Health Risks and Mitragynine Toxicity

Kratom mitragynine consumption has adverse effects on human health, even when taken in a controlled amount. It may result in mild to complex diseases like:

1. Dependency and withdrawal symptoms: A study by the American Addiction Center indicates that prolonged use of Kratom may lead to dependency, resulting in anxiety, depression, and cravings. It may also result in isolation and social withdrawal.
2. Liver toxicity: According to a report by the World Health Organization, the liver can also take a hit due to excessive use, which may result in liver toxicity and jaundice.  
3. Seizures and Respiratory Depression: A study by the US Food and Drug Administration has linked Mitragynine consumption to seizures and respiratory depression. 

A report by the National Library of Medicine has shown a strong link between kratom usage and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Therefore, the dangers of kratom use to human health cannot be overlooked.

Case Studies Highlighting Kratom Toxicity 

There are several lawsuits of legal heirs of victims filing a wrongful death claim against product manufacturers who failed to maintain the recommended amount of Kratom in their products, leading to the deaths of many people. 

• A herbal tea distributor was sued by the family of the deceased for $11 million after a report by Palm Beach County Coroner confirmed that the victim, Krystal Talavera, died due to acute kratom poisoning from the tea.
• In 2023, a Cowlitz County jury compensated the heirs of the victim, Patrick Coyne, with $2.5 million against the kratom product manufacturer for kratom death.
• The MIT45 company was sued by two consumers in California, alleging addiction after prolonged use of their product.

Legal Status and Regulatory Concerns 

Federal agencies have taken strict actions against the manufacturing of Kratom and other mitragynine products. Kratom import was banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2021 due to increasing fatality cases in several states. Many states like Indiana, Rhode Island, Alabama, and Wisconsin have classified it as a controlled substance and limited its use in products. 

In Missouri, the controlled use of Kratom is legal. The Kratom Consumer Protection Act prohibits the use of Kratom below the age of 18 years, requires labeling of mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine products, and the substances must not exceed the recommended 2% threshold in the product. The St. Charles County Ordinance has put restrictions on Kratom retailers in Chapter 237 ── all Kratom products must be submitted for review, retailers have to pay $600/annually in taxes, and must not have consumers below the age of 18.

Guidelines for Safe Consumption and Risk Mitigation 

If you are considering using Kratom-based products, be mindful of the following guidelines and risk mitigation steps. 

1. Kratom is a controlled substance with documented adverse medical effects on health. Always consult a medical practitioner first. 
2. Consumption should be started from a minute amount and must never exceed the recommended threshold. 
3. Mixing Kratom with other substances like opium or alcohol can worsen your condition, so avoid that at all costs. 
4. States have different regulatory frameworks for Kratom consumption. Educate yourself on the latest laws to make informed choices. 

Unregulated Kratom use can cause severe health issues and even death in many cases. It is crucial to stay informed and cautious when consuming products that have kratom ingredients, specifically mitragynine. If the dose is even slightly above the recommended amount, never use it without consulting a medical specialist first.