Hazards of Kratom
what is it?
Community Resources: Understanding the Dangers of Kratom
Empowering Missouri Communities Through Education & Awareness
The Missouri Narcotics Officers Association is dedicated to supporting law enforcement professionals throughout Missouri while helping community members understand emerging drug trends, substance abuse dangers, and public safety concerns. Through education and community resources like this, MNOA works to protect Missouri families and provide citizens with reliable information about dangerous substances affecting our neighborhoods.
As new drugs and intoxicating substances continue to appear in stores, online marketplaces, and communities, education remains one of the strongest tools for prevention. One substance that has gained significant attention in recent years is kratom.
While many people may see kratom sold openly in smoke shops, convenience stores, gas stations, and online retailers, its legal status does not necessarily mean it is safe.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia that contains compounds capable of producing stimulant and opioid-like effects. The leaves of the kratom plant contain active ingredients called mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with receptors in the brain.
Kratom products are commonly sold as capsules, powders, tablets, liquid extracts, gummies, beverages, and concentrated shots
Because these products are often sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and convenience stores, some individuals mistakenly believe kratom is harmless. This misconception has led many experts to refer to kratom as a “gas station drug.”
Why Is Kratom Called a “Gas Station Drug”?
The term “gas station drug” refers to substances that are widely available in retail locations and marketed as legal alternatives to controlled substances. Kratom products are frequently marketed as natural or herbal supplements and sold without prescriptions. They are often packaged with appealing branding and advertised as energy boosts, mood enhancers, or relaxants.
Although Missouri state law prohibits the sale of Kratom to anyone under the age of 21, this legal drug can be easily obtained and abused by those who are underage.
The accessibility of kratom can create a false sense of safety. However, legality does not equal safety, and many substances sold legally can still pose significant health risks.
What Are the Dangers of Kratom Use?
Although some individuals use kratom for its stimulant or sedative effects, the drug can produce unpredictable reactions depending on the dose, product strength, and the individual using it.
There are many potential side effects of kratom use, and individuals who use this product may experience nausea, vomiting, dizziness, elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, confusion, agitation, drowsiness, sweating, and tremors. At higher doses, kratom can produce opioid-like effects that may impair judgment, coordination, and breathing. Some Kratom products may also contain additional substances or contaminants that increase health risks.
Can Kratom Be Addictive?
Yes, prolonged use of kratom can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Individuals who use kratom regularly may develop a tolerance, requiring larger amounts to achieve the same effects. Over time, this can increase the risk of dependency. People struggling with kratom addiction often feel unable to stop using the product and use larger amounts than intended to achieve the same high. Like most drug users, the abuse of kratom can lead to financial burdens. Prolonged use of kratom can become a difficult habit to break, and the withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting can be difficult.
Kratom withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, irritability, sleep-related issues like insomnia, muscle aches, nausea, restlessness, and depression.
Can Kratom Cause Overdose?
Kratom can contribute to overdose situations, particularly when used in large quantities or combined with other substances. When kratom is abused and combined with alcohol, prescription pain medications, benzodiazepines, illegal opioids, and other sedatives, the risk of dangerous side effects can significantly increase.
The most common kratom-related overdose symptoms include severe drowsiness, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, confusion, seizures, and irregular heartbeat
Anyone experiencing these symptoms requires immediate medical attention and should seek help immediately. Recognizing the signs of substance abuse early can help prevent serious health consequences.
Why Young Adults Are at a Higher Risk of Kratom Abuse
Young adults and teenagers may be especially vulnerable to kratom experimentation because the products are often marketed as herbal supplements that are natural, legal, and safe.
Social media trends, online marketing, and easy availability contribute to higher kratom use amongst younger adults. Having an open conversation about substance use, healthy decision-making, and the risks associated with gas station drugs like kratom can help protect young people from dangerous outcomes. Parents, educators, employers, and family members should remain aware of these signs, especially if they believe a kratom is being abused.
MNOA’s Commitment to Community Education
The Missouri Narcotics Officers Association remains committed to educating citizens about emerging drug threats and helping communities stay informed. As substances like kratom continue to appear in gas stations, smoke shops, and online retailers, accurate information becomes increasingly important. Understanding the risks associated with these products allows families to make informed decisions and recognize warning signs before problems escalate.
Education, prevention, and community involvement can save lives.
Explore More MNOA Community Resources
MNOA encourages Missouri residents, parents, educators, and community leaders to continue learning about today’s drug threats and prevention strategies.
Explore additional MNOA Community Resources and Narcotics articles to learn more about:
Together, we can help keep Missouri families safe, strengthen our communities, and reduce the impact of dangerous substances like kratom.
Missouri Narcotics Officers Association: Protecting Communities Through Education, Training, and Awareness.
