Kratom is a plant that some people use to try to treat pain or addiction. It comes from a tree in Southeast Asia. People often use kratom by chewing the leaves, drinking it in tea, or taking pills made from kratom. Some people think kratom is a safe and natural way to treat pain or addiction, but there can be risks. Kratom can cause side effects like nausea, constipation, and even seizures. It can also interact with other medicines in dangerous ways. This is important for doctors to know, especially for patients who need surgery. Doctors need to be aware if a patient is using kratom so they can plan the patient’s treatment carefully.
This study looked at the effects of kratom and how it might impact medical care, especially during surgery. The authors reviewed information from many different studies on kratom to understand its risks and how it might affect a patient’s health. This was a review of existing research, not a new study done in a lab or on people.
Key takeaways:
- Kratom has complex effects on the body, acting on many different receptors in the brain and body.
- Kratom use can lead to unexpected medical problems, like seizures or abnormal heart rhythms, that doctors need to be aware of.
- Kratom can interact with other medications in dangerous ways, so doctors need to ask patients about kratom use.
- There are no good ways to test for kratom use, so doctors may not know a patient is using it unless the patient tells them.
- More research is needed to fully understand the risks of kratom and how to safely care for patients who use it.
For further reading:
Full Citation:
Garmon EH, Olson K. Narrative Review of Kratom, an Emerging Psychoactive Substance With Perianesthetic Implications. Anesthesia & Analgesia. 2022 Dec 1;135(6):1180-8.
