Synthetic Kratom Blamed for Surge in US Poisonings
Experts say natural kratom may offer benefits, but warn synthetic derivatives are causing a spike in kratom-related poisonings across the US.
A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report has revealed a troubling surge in kratom poisonings across the United States, with cases skyrocketing by approximately 1,200% over the last decade. However, experts suggest that the root cause of this alarming trend may not be the natural kratom plant itself, but rather the proliferation of synthetic derivatives like 7-OH.
According to Walter Prozialeck, a pharmacology professor at Midwestern University, the surge in poisonings was not entirely unexpected. Prozialeck emphasized that the natural form of kratom may actually offer potential benefits, particularly in aiding pain management and addiction recovery. The problem, he suggests, lies with the synthetic versions of the compound, which are often more potent and potentially more dangerous.
Source: The Guardian
