Kratom is often marketed as a “safe,” all-natural alternative for pain relief, anxiety, or opioid withdrawal. But the reality is far more dangerous. One of its main active compounds—7-hydroxy-mitragynine (7-OH)—acts on the brain’s opioid receptors much like morphine or heroin.
Research shows that 7-OH can be up to 13 times more potent than morphine, increasing the risk of addiction, dependence, and overdose. Despite these dangers, kratom products are sold across the country with little to no regulation, and often without clear warnings or medical oversight.
Easy Access, Little Oversight
Kratom is widely available both in-person and online. In the Kansas City area, it’s sold openly in smoke shops, gas stations, convenience stores, and specialty herbal retailers, often marketed as a natural supplement or energy booster.
This easy access—combined with inconsistent product labeling and potency—means that many users have no idea how strong or risky these products truly are.
The legal gray area allows kratom products—many containing concentrated or modified forms of 7-OH—to be sold freely, even though they can pose serious health risks.
Holding Manufacturers Accountable
Our firm is currently investigating cases involving addiction, overdose or wrongful death involving kratom products.