FDA Warns People About Kratom 

Warnings Against The Drug Kratom 

Just recently the Food and Drug Administration issued two warnings to two separate businesses claiming that “Kratom” can cure and treat opioid addiction. This illegal marketing scam has since brought attention to this drug which is not manufactured in the United States and is not approved by the FDA.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom is a tropical tree found native in Southeast Asia whose leaves produce a psychotropic (mind-altering) effects when ingested. It is currently an illegal substance, but many have easily purchased the drug online. It is sometimes sold as a green powder in a packet labeled “not for human consumption,” it can also be found in gum, capsules, and extracts.1

 

A Warning to All Users

Although some say Kratom can reduce the side effects of an opioid withdrawal and as well as relive pain, the FDA announced that the drug affects the brain receptors the same way morphine does and can lead to a future of drug abuse and addiction. Acting FDA Commissioner Dr. Ned Sharpless said, “Despite our warnings, companies continue to sell this dangerous product and make deceptive medical claims that are not backed by science or any reliable scientific evidence.”2

There have been many warnings issued by the FDA against Kratom, detailing the negative side effects like dizziness, coma, breathing-related issues, and even death. Kratom was also linked to a multi-state salmonella outbreak.3 Marketing Kratom as a potential opioid treatment is a dangerous claim when users instead should find a licensed drug detox center. California-based Cali Botanicals and North Carolina-based KratomNC are putting claims out there that are fictitious and dangerous to make. Dr. Ned Sharpless said, “As we work to combat the opioid crisis, we cannot allow unscrupulous vendors to take advantage of consumers by selling products with unsubstantiated claims that they can treat opioid addiction or alleviate other medical conditions.”2

Moving Forward

Since the FDA issued the warnings, Cali Botanicals has removed its webpage about Kratom treating opioid addiction. As of right now, KratomNC hasn’t changed anything and the false descriptions are still on the company’s website.

At Simple Path Recovery, we are here to help you or your loved one with an opioid addiction. We offer a unique approach to addiction and have support groups for not just you, but the family as well. To learn more or to get the treatment and help you need, contact us and speak to one of our addiction specialists.

Sources:

  1. National Institute on Drug Abuse – What Is Kratom?
  2. CNBC – FDA issues warnings to companies that claim an herbal drug can cure opioid addiction
  3. Food and Drug Administration – FDA and Kratom

"Staff genuinely cares, clinical staff and therapists are educated and also care about clients. Techs, Jason, And Dave care and will talk with clients and provide experience and advice."


Matt K.

Jack’s journey began when he arrived at Simple Path to get clean and sober. He never thought he could deal with his anxiety and depression without using drugs. Group and one-on-one therapy empowered him to deal with his problems and get better. Going strong at his one-year anniversary, Jack is in a very good place.


Jack

"I attended Simple Path in June of 2019. I had never tried to get sober and I never went to treatment before. I was scared and vulnerable. I immediately felt safe at Simple Path. In the IOP the therapists listened to me, like actually heard and genuinely cared about me. They not only helped me on my path to sobriety but they also helped me immensely with my trauma. God willing I'll have 16 months on the 1st. I couldn't have done it without all the love and care from Simple Path. Thank you to Cathy, Heidi, Carrie, Emily, Sammy Jo and Ian!"


Vanessa

"This place is great. I have nothing but the best to say about simple path I would definitely recommend it to anyone. I never thought recovery was possible before I came hear but I now have 8 months of sobriety. The staff was very helpful and I learned a lot from the groups."


Devin C.

"Simple path recovery has truly been a godsend for me. From day one, they took me under their arm and showed me how to live a happy and successful life in recovery! They gave me all the spiritual tools I needed and a lot more! I’ve met a lot of people in recovery and I can honestly say simple path cares. I’m still friends with all the staff and they are definitely my recovery family. God bless you guys!"


Justin M.

"I've worked with a number of addiction treatment centers over time and I'm always impressed by the smaller programs. Simple Path rises to the top of this group that resonates with staff and patients alike."


Matthew K.

"I can’t put into words what this place have done not for just for my daughter but our whole family. The phone calls/ text didn’t stop when she finished treatment. They still go above and beyond to stay in contact with us all. I know without a doubt these guys love what they do!! I would recommend ANYONE to this treatment center. And can never thank them enough for what they did for my family."


Dana J.

"All the therapists are great and very supportive!"


Matthew L.

"This IOP program has been a pillar in my recovery. They let me stay for as long as I needed to and worked on my core issues. "


Jessica R.

"Simple path gave me a second chance at the life I was always meant to have... and a second, and a third. If you really want to get sober Simple Path will arm you with the knowledge to do so. 90% of all the staff at housing and clinical are in recovery with substantial time. By far the best experiences of my life were at Simple Path Recovery. Shout out to Matt, Stevie, Pete, Carrie, Adam, and Derick. I love each and every one of you guys."


Davey R.

"I sent my son here and the staff at SPR made the process so easy and comfortable for us and my son. I can't say enough good things about this place.


Delores M.

"Amazing place if you are trying to get sober. Helps kick start your life when you get into the real world. All the staff here genuinely cares about all the clients."


Jake B.

"I just want to say thank you simple path you helped to save my life. I was broken before I came here but today my life is amazing. I learned so much from talking with staff and all the coping skills I learned in the groups. The fact that the staff walked in my shoes gave my hope when I first got here. I am so grateful that I chose this place. If you want to get sober this is the place to be."


Jordan D.

Simple Path was there for Dennis when he was most broken. They provided him with support and gave him the tools he needed to shed the ill feelings he once felt about himself. Today, Dennis has a new perspective, gaining the confidence to walk out of Simple Path’s doors a changed man; living a healthier and happier life.


Dennis

"Simple path is a good place to go if you're in need of halfway with some clinical help! The staff is great both at iop and at housing. Lee, Derrick, and Ian are all great employees along with Denise and Peter at IOP."


Dan D.

"Amazing program! Very life changing and caring-people! Simple-Path saved my life."


Chase D.

"Nice staff, beautiful property and facility along A1A."


Jeremiah C.

"Simple Path saved my life. There hands on approach to helping you start living a self reliant independent sober life has been nothing short of a blessing to me. I am totally grateful for the staff and the techs."


Harry C.

"Simple path by far is the place to go for help with alcohol and drugs.. I went through there intensive out patient program which you live in their house for 30 days. It changed my life for the better... They have the best theripest that work with you individually and in group,. This is where I found myself again.. I have been sober for 6 months now thanks to simple path and all their great employees that really care about you and build you up for your next chance at life... This is the place to start your new journey in life."


Allison W.

"I have sent numerous patients to Simple Path with great success. The transition from my facility to theirs has always been a smooth one. The care and compassion at this facility is remarkable. Most of my work is with Matt O’Malley who goes over and beyond to make sure our patients feel comfortable when they arrive at the facility. It’s an honor to collaborate with this facility daily!"


Pat C.

"Simple Path is an absolutely great place to start turning your life around! From the beginning they were extremely helpful and made sure my entire process very easy and smooth. Everyone that helped me personally there from the start - Lee, Kyle, Matt are all fantastic guys who always had my back with any assistance I needed, always went the extra mile and remained that way my entire time there."


Max B.

"I am so grateful for simple path and all the staff there. They have taught me a lot about myself and how to deal with everyday life challenges. Ian with out a doubt saved my life without him in my corner I don’t know where I would be. The clinical staff is very informative about addiction and help client’s get back on there feet. I’m so very grateful they got to be part of my journey."


Jake S.

Most Insurance Accepted