Washington State Research Brief Finds Low Kratom Use Prevalence But Rising 7-OH Exposure, Calls for More Data

Why it matters

State-level public health agencies are beginning to quantify kratom's actual prevalence and harm patterns in their populations. Washington's non-partisan research brief demonstrates how poison center data and surveys can guide evidence-based policy decisions.

The big picture

National surveys (NSDUH) estimate kratom use at <1%, though some smaller studies suggest up to 4%. Washington's poison center data shows low but rising kratom-related calls, with 7-OH emerging as 20% of all kratom exposures in 2025. Most kratom-related overdose deaths (89%) involved co-ingested substances, complicating causal attribution. The brief argues that more systematic research is needed to understand kratom's role in Washington's substance use landscape.

Key findings

• National past-year kratom use <1%; one smaller survey estimated 4%. Use highest in 18-25 year-olds. In Washington, poison center calls remain low but rising; 7-OH calls emerged for the first time in 2025, accounting for ~20% of kratom exposures. 25% of regular kratom users meet criteria for kratom use disorder (KUD). 36 kratom-related overdose deaths in Washington (2022), but 89% involved other substances. Contamination with salmonella and heavy metals documented.

What they say

"More systematic research is needed to accurately measure how common kratom is in Washington... there are several potential negative short- and long-term consequences related to kratom use." — Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board Research Program (2026)

Bottom line

**Washington's research brief finds low baseline kratom use but rapidly emerging 7-OH exposures, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance and systematic state-level data collection.**