BOSTON (WWLP) – Massachusetts is moving to restrict the sale of kratom, a largely unregulated substance that state health officials say can cause dependence, overdose, and other serious side effects.
Kratom is a tree native to Southeast Asia that is sometimes used as a herbal substance, producing opioid- and stimulant-like effects. It is commonly sold in smoke shops, convenience stores, and gas stations in forms including powders, tablets, capsules, gummies, and dissolvable strips.
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Often referred to as “gas station heroin,” the Mayo Clinic describes kratom as an herbal extract that is often sold as a supplement. It is frequently marketed as an energy booster, mood lifter, and pain reliever.
State officials said kratom products can vary in potency and ingredients because they are largely unregulated, making it difficult for consumers to know what they are purchasing or the risks associated with use.
Governor Maura Healey announced Thursday that the state will take steps to remove kratom products from store shelves, expand public educational initiatives and increase access to addiction treatment services.
“Dangerous kratom products are being sold in stores across Massachusetts with little oversight, and people – including children – often have no way of knowing what they’re buying or how potent it is,” Governor Healey said in a statement.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has issued an emergency order temporarily placing all forms of kratom into “Schedule I” under state law to restrict its sale. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Schedule I drugs are substances with a high potential for abuse and are not accepted as a medical treatment, such as heroin, LSD, and ecstasy.
The order will take effect after a 14-day notice period and remain in place for up to one year. This will also allow local boards of health and other municipal officials additional authority to take enforcement action against retailers selling kratom products.
“Kratom is increasingly available in stores and comes in many different forms and potencies, but many people may not realize the serious risks associated with these products,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.
Several municipalities have already taken steps to ban the sale of kratom, such as Belchertown and Northampton. States that have banned the product from store shelves include Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
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The Department of Public Health said kratom use has been linked to seizures, hallucinations, psychosis, physical dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. Officials also warned of overdose risks when kratom is mixed with opioids, alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives.
Naloxone should be administered if a person who has used kratom has slowed or stopped breathing, state officials urge.
Department of Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein said the state is responding to growing concerns about kratom use among both youth and adults.
“Our goal is to protect the public while getting those who need treatment or support the care they deserve,” Goldstein said.
Those seeking treatment or recovery support for kratom can call or text the Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline at 800-327-5050, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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