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Abstract: 

Kratom is widely marketed as a natural remedy for pain, mood enhancement, and even opioid addiction, yet reports of poisonings and hospitalizations have risen dramatically over the past decade. In this timely review, Andrew Kolodny examines the scientific evidence behind the claims surrounding kratom and explains why many addiction specialists and public health officials view it as an opioid with significant risks rather than a harmless supplement. The article reviews kratom's pharmacology, growing evidence of dependence, overdose, and other adverse health effects, and the lack of credible evidence supporting its use for opioid use disorder. As lawmakers weigh regulation and public demand continues to grow, this article provides an evidence-based assessment of one of the nation's most controversial emerging drugs.

Keywords: Kratom; Opioid Use Disorder; Substance Abuse; Drug Safety; Overdose; Public Health

Affiliations:  1: Brandeis University.