Medical Review Links Kratom Use to Underrecognized Hyperpigmentation

Why it matters

Clinicians may miss kratom as a possible cause of acquired facial or sun-exposed pigmentation, especially when patients do not mention nonprescription products.

The big picture

A 2026 Cutis review describes a rare but documented adverse effect associated with chronic kratom use. The authors emphasize that evidence is based largely on case reports and that reversibility after stopping kratom is uncertain.

Key findings

• The review identifies 15 reported cases of kratom-induced hyperpigmentation.

What they say

The authors write that careful history-taking, including inquiry about nonprescription supplements, is essential for timely diagnosis and counseling.

Bottom line

**Kratom should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained photodistributed hyperpigmentation, but the evidence remains case-report based.**