Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, primarily in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its stimulating and sedative effects. Kratom leaves contain two main active compounds: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.

Some of the uses of Kratom include:

1. Pain relief: Kratom is used by many people as a natural pain reliever. It contains alkaloids that have pain-relieving properties similar to opioids.
2. Anxiety and depression: Kratom has been reported to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, making it a natural option for people who suffer from anxiety and depression.
3. Opioid withdrawal: Kratom is sometimes used to alleviate the symptoms of opioid withdrawal, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and cravings.
4. Energy and focus: Kratom is known to produce stimulating effects, making it popular among people who need an energy boost or improved focus.
5. Relaxation and sedation: Kratom can also produce sedative effects, making it useful for people who need help with relaxation or sleep.
6. Addiction recovery: Kratom is sometimes used as a natural alternative to prescription drugs for people recovering from addiction. It can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.

However, it’s worth noting that the FDA has raised concerns about the safety and efficacy of Kratom, and some studies have linked its use to adverse health effects, including addiction, seizures, liver damage, and even death. Therefore, it’s important to use Kratom with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Side Effects Of Kratom

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia and is often used as a herbal supplement for pain relief, anxiety, and depression. While it has some potential benefits, there are also some side effects associated with its use. Some of the common side effects of kratom include:

1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Dry mouth
3. Constipation
4. Dizziness
5. Headache
6. Increased urination
7. Loss of appetite
8. Sweating
9. Itching
10. Insomnia

In addition to these side effects, high doses of kratom may cause more serious health problems, including liver damage, seizures, and psychosis. Long-term use of kratom may also lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms, such as muscle aches, irritability, and aggression. Therefore, it is important to use kratom with caution and only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Kratom Information & Safety Guide

Learn about kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), its active compounds, potential risks, and important safety considerations. This page provides general information to help consumers understand kratom products and make informed health decisions.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Products made from kratom leaves may contain naturally occurring compounds including mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH).

Kratom products can be found in different forms, including powders, capsules, extracts, and other preparations. The composition and potency of products can vary considerably.

Kratom Uses and Consumer Information

Some people use kratom products for various self-directed purposes. However, kratom has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat any medical condition.

Consumers should be cautious of websites or products making claims that kratom can treat, cure, or prevent medical conditions. FDA warns against using kratom for medical treatment because its safety and effectiveness for medical uses have not been established. citeturn0search0

Kratom Safety Information

Kratom can have health risks. FDA has warned about serious adverse events associated with kratom, including liver toxicity, seizures, substance use disorder, and withdrawal symptoms.

Some kratom products have also been found to contain contaminants such as Salmonella or concerning levels of heavy metals. citeturn0search0turn0search4

Kratom and 7-HydroxymitragHynine (7-O)

7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly called 7-OH, is one of the naturally occurring compounds associated with kratom. Products containing concentrated or enhanced levels of 7-OH are a particular safety concern.

In 2026, federal authorities began taking steps concerning certain concentrated 7-OH products and synthetic 7-OH-related compounds. Consumers should not assume that a product containing concentrated 7-OH has the same risk profile as ordinary kratom leaf. citeturn0search1turn0search14

Kratom and Prescription Medications

Anyone taking prescription medications or other substances should discuss kratom use with a qualified healthcare professional before using it.

Combining substances can create additional health risks, and the effects may depend on the medication, dose, individual health factors, and other substances being used.

Kratom Product Quality and Contaminatino

Kratom products may differ significantly in composition and potency. FDA has reported testing that identified potentially concerning levels of heavy metals in some kratom products.

Because product quality can vary, consumers should be particularly cautious about products with unclear ingredients, exaggerated health claims, or inadequate labeling. citeturn0search4

Is Kratom FDA Approved?

Kratom is not an FDA-approved treatment for any medical condition. FDA states that there are no legally marketed prescription or over-the-counter drug products containing kratom or its known alkaloids in the United States. citeturn0search0

Important Information Before Using Kratom

Before using kratom or a kratom-containing product, consider speaking with a healthcare professional, particularly if you:

• Take prescription or over-the-counter medications
• Have an existing medical condition
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a history of substance-use problems
• Are considering kratom to manage pain, withdrawal, anxiety, or another medical condition

Do not use kratom as a substitute for an FDA-approved treatment without discussing your options with a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom

What is kratom?

Kratom is a tropical plant known scientifically as Mitragyna speciosa. Its leaves contain naturally occurring alkaloids including mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.

Is kratom FDA approved?

No. FDA has not approved kratom to treat any medical condition. citeturn0search0

Is kratom safe?

Kratom has potential health risks, including liver toxicity, seizures, substance-use disorder, withdrawal, and contamination concerns. citeturn0search0turn0search4

What is 7-OH?

7-OH, or 7-hydroxymitragynine, is a naturally occurring kratom alkaloid. Products with enhanced or concentrated 7-OH are subject to additional federal regulatory attention and safety warnings. citeturn0search1

Should I talk to a doctor before using kratom?

Yes. A healthcare professional can help you understand potential interactions, risks, and safer evidence-based treatment options.

Need Medication Information?

For information about prescription medications and other pharmacy products, visit the Maxson Pharmacy catalog and review the applicable product information and requirements.