In this article, the authors discuss the pharmacokinetics, effects, and potential toxicity of kratom. Kratom contains 40 alkaloids, primarily mitragynine, and these alkaloids bind to opioid, serotonin, and adrenergic receptors. Anecdotally, kratom has been used to treat pain, opioid withdrawal symptoms, and psychiatric disorders including depression and anxiety. This article reviews the limited studies and evidence of kratom’s use for pain and opioid withdrawal. The authors also reviewed the potential toxicity of kratom, including opioid-like deaths, serotonin syndrome, cardiotoxicity, and liver injury; however, the picture is complicated as kratom is frequently used with other substances.

Full article: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17512433.2024.2305798