Kratom-infused drinks linked to addiction and withdrawal symptoms
Consumers report addiction and withdrawal symptoms after using legal, over-the-counter kratom-containing wellness beverages. Health organizations and regulators are calling for stricter controls.
Consumers, including health entrepreneur McKenzie Wisdom, are reporting developing addictions to "Feel Free" wellness beverages containing kratom, a plant from Southeast Asia. Users have experienced severe withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain, after discontinuing use of the product, which is legally sold in over 10,000 U.S. stores.
Kratom, sometimes referred to as "gas-station heroin," is marketed for energy, mood enhancement, and pain relief. However, it carries addictive properties and can act as a sedative at higher doses. Despite warnings from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, its use is increasing, with over 5 million Americans, including more than 100,000 minors, having used it according to a University of Michigan and Texas State University study.
Botanic Tonics, the maker of "Feel Free," asserts it adheres to rigorous consumer education and transparency practices that exceed category requirements. The company states it has received no verified complaints of addiction or serious side effects. However, consumers like Wisdom claim they were unaware of the product's addictive nature.
The American Medical Association (AMA) has urged the FDA and state legislatures to classify 7-OH kratom products as adulterated or misbranded and prohibit their sale. While the DEA has announced intent to classify 7-OH as a Schedule I controlled substance, this action may not cover all kratom products. Kratom is currently banned in six U.S. states.