Is kratom too dangerous to use?

Latest Update

Kratom Interactions

Written by Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Latest Update April 02, 2026 ⓘ

Is kratom safe? Is it legal? -- Kratom leaf and pills

Answer:

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is sold as leaf powder or leaf extract (which may be very concentrated) in powder, liquid, capsule, or tea forms. The active compounds in kratom (mitragynine and/or 7-hydroxymitragynine -- also known as 7-OH) can have opioid-like effects similar to morphine and heroin.

Kratom is promoted for many uses, including increasing energy, helping with anxiety and depression, providing pain relief, and easing symptoms of opioid withdrawal. However, these potential benefits can come with serious potential risks, including liver and kidney injury, heart rhythm problems, cardiac arrest, seizures, coma and even death.

Sign in as a member to learn about adverse effects and drug interactions with kratom and if kratom leaf is associated with the same adverse effects as concentrated products. Also see how much mitragynine and 7-OH has been found in kratom products.

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