The next addiction crisis? 7 things to know about Kratom
Used for centuries as a natural stimulant and pain reliever, Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally, people chewed its leaves to boost energy or brewed them into tea for relief from aches and pains. But today, Kratom has fallen far from its roots. Sold in smoke shops and gas stations across California and online, the latest Kratom products are chemically enhanced and highly addictive. Known as Hydroxy Kratom, this product contains high concentrations of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), the opioid-like compound derived from the Kratom plant. “In the past two months, I’ve treated as many patients for Hydroxy Kratom withdrawal as for fentanyl,” said Hoag Addiction Treatment Centers’ Chief of Service Steven R. Ey, MD, DFASAM. “That’s an alarming shift, and it underscores how quickly this substance is gaining ground.” Here are six things to know about the drug experts warn could become the next wave in America’s addiction crisis:
1. Newer “synthetic” versions are far more potent Hydroxy Kratom is chemically enhanced to multiply the drug’s effects. Some estimates suggest Hydroxy Kratom is 50 to 100 times more potent than traditional Kratom. “One patient I treated recently said Hydroxy Kratom shouldn’t even be called Kratom anymore,” Dr. Ey said. “He’s right. These chemically enhanced versions bear little resemblance to the original plant.” Higher potency also means greater risk for respiratory depression, seizures, liver toxicity, dependency, and severe withdrawal symptoms.
2. Kratom is being sold legally and often without restrictions You can find Kratom in smoke shops, gas stations, and online—often marketed as a “natural” or “herbal” remedy for pain, focus, or mood. In most parts of California, there are no age restrictions and no warning labels required. “During a recent visit to a nearby smoke shop, I was offered free samples of Hydroxy Kratom with no ID check and no questions asked,” said Dr. Ey.
3. Though it’s marketed as an herbal supplement, Kratom’s pharmacology closely resembles an opioid Kratom targets and binds to the same receptors in the brain that opioids like oxycodone and fentanyl do. When those receptors are repeatedly activated, the brain’s reward system adapts, leading to:
Tolerance: Needing more of the drug to feel the same effects
Dependence: Relying on the drug to function normally
Withdrawal: Experiencing fatigue, anxiety, irritability, and muscle aches when trying to stop
4. Kratom exists in a dangerous legal gray zone While some California cities like Newport Beach have banned the sale of Kratom, most haven’t.
At the state level, California still allows anyone, of any age, to buy Kratom. Assembly Bill 2365 seeks to raise the minimum purchase age to 21, but it has yet to pass—and even that may not be enough to curb the problem.
5. The warning signs of Kratom use often mirror those of opioids or stimulants Some of the most common signs are:
Physical: Constricted pupils, weight loss, changes in sleep patterns, seizures
Behavioral: Neglecting responsibilities, secretive behavior about what’s being taken or how often, frequent trips to smoke shops or gas stations
Mental: Unusually high energy followed by fatigue, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, depression or suicidal thoughts
6. Treatment is available and effective Recovery from Kratom dependence is possible. Detox may involve medications like buprenorphine to ease withdrawal, followed by comprehensive treatment that includes:
Individual and group therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Community support programs
7. Awareness is our first line of defense Kratom is already here—and growing fast. It’s time for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to start the conversation. Key takeaways: Don’t be fooled by labels like “natural” or “herbal.” Don’t assume it’s safe just because it’s legal. And most importantly, don’t wait to reach out for help if you see the warning signs.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please call our team at 949-764-6883.
