Kratom products and their derivatives have become increasingly prominent in retail settings over recent years, prompting heightened scrutiny from public health authorities. The category encompasses a broad range of items that largely operate outside regulatory frameworks. Survey data from the Annenberg Public Policy Center indicates that approximately 66% of Americans have never encountered kratom, and among those with some awareness, many lack understanding of distinctions between natural leaf forms and more processed derivatives. Additionally, about 66% of survey respondents expressed uncertainty regarding whether kratom products present serious public safety concerns.
The kratom plant grows on evergreen trees native to Southeast Asian countries including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Traditionally, people in these regions have consumed kratom leaves through chewing or brewing into tea for stimulant-like properties. The plant contains numerous alkaloids, with mitragynine being the most abundant compound studied to date. When consumed in lower quantities, kratom produces mild stimulant effects comparable to coffee, while higher doses have been used by individuals managing chronic pain and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Users describe kratom preparations as having a notably unpleasant taste, often prompting efforts to mask the flavor.
Recent developments have centered on concentrated derivatives containing alkaloids like 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI), and dihydro-7-hydroxy mitragynine (MGM-15). These semi-synthetic products are sold in various formats including tablets, gummies, shots, and powdered drinks, often under brand names such as Dozo Perks, Roxy, and UltraOhmz Pseudo Supreme. Early 7-OH tablets contained 12-14 milligrams, though products now available feature concentrations of 25, 50, and even 100 milligrams. Research suggests that up to approximately 38% of kratom users may develop use disorders. While withdrawal from traditional kratom appears mild clinically, growing concern exists that concentrated 7-OH products carry heightened addiction potential with withdrawal comparable to traditional opioids. Multiple states and localities have implemented emergency restrictions on these concentrated compounds and related products.
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