Authors

Donna Papsun | William Schroeder II | Justin Brower | Barry Logan

Affiliations

1. NMS Laboratories, 200 Welsh Rd, Horsham, PA 19044, USA

2. Center for Forensic Science Research & Education (CFSRE) 2300 Stratford Ave, Willow Grove, PA 19090, USA

Abstract

Kratom, a preparation of the leaves collected from the Southeast Asian plant Mitragyna speciosa, has increased in use within the United States (US) predominantly due to its stimulant and opioid-like effects. It contains many active alkaloids, most notably mitragynine. Clinical pharmacological research and toxicological information are limited, hindering forensic interpretation and an understanding of the role kratom use may play in death. Despite arguments from some vocal proponents and vendors that kratom poses no risk to users, there is a growing body of evidence that kratom use can result in significant adverse events, including death.

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