December E-new Topic

Page 1

Kratom (Herbal Drug of Abuse

)


Kratom ď‚— Large tree indigenous to Thailand and Malaysia ď‚— Leaves are usually chewed but it can be found in a

dried form to create powder, tinctures and resins and is sold in the US in pill form.


Kratom  Kratom contains at least 25 compounds that act as

poisons, the most significant being mitragynine and 7hydroxymitragynine.

 The former is considered a “true opiate” and is 17

times more potent than morphine by weight.

Source: Takayama H, Ishikawa H, Kurihara M, Kitajima M, Aimi N, Ponglux D, Koyama F, Matsumoto K, Moriyama T, Yamamoto LT, Watanabe K, Murayama T, Horie S (April 2002). "Studies on the synthesis and opioid agonistic activities of mitragynine-related indole alkaloids: discovery of opioid agonists structurally different from other opioid ligands". J. Med. Chem. 45 (9): 1949–56. doi:10.1021/jm010576e. PMID 11960505.


Effects of Kratom In low doses, Kratom acts as a stimulant, having a cocaine-like effect.

In high doses, Kratom acts as a sedative, having an opioid-like effect.

Kratom is frequently marketed as a natural pain reliever and an alternative to powerful addictive narcotics like oxycontin. However‌.. Kratom IS addictive and regular users experience symptoms of withdrawal when they discontinue use. Source: DEA


Effects of Kratom Short-term effects

Long-term effects 

Nausea

Vomiting

Loss of appetite

Dehydration

Frequent urination

Skin irritation (itiching)

Constipation

Source: DEA, Narconon

   

Depression Insomnia Malnutrition

Organ dysfunction

Lowed immune system 

Respiratory illness

Cardiac problems

Dark spots on face


Legal Status of Kratom  Kratom is legal in Florida, however anything dubbed

as a “legal high” comes under suspicion and is being watched by law enforcemnet.

 Kratom is not listed in the Controlled Substances Act.

The DEA added Kratom to the list of Drugs and Chemicals of Concern.


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