Navigating the Landscape: A Look at Kratom Use in the US

A new study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs offers a clear and surprising snapshot of current kratom use, providing valuable data for anyone on a journey of self-exploration and wellness. Authored by a team including Oliver Grundmann, this research dives into who is using kratom, why, and what specific products they are turning to. The findings reinforce much of what we know while shedding light on the complexities of a largely unregulated market.

This study, based on a survey of over 11,000 respondents, found a 9.1% prevalence of current kratom use among the sample. It confirms that the reasons for use are diverse, but certain motivations stand out.

Key Findings from the Study:

• Pain Relief is a Primary Motivator: Over half of the respondents (57.5%) reported using kratom specifically for pain relief, making it the most common reason for use.

• Stress and Energy are Key: Relaxation/stress relief (53.6%) and an energy boost (49.6%) were also major drivers for use.

• Product Matters: The study found that different forms of kratom yield different perceived benefits. For example, tea bags were linked to increased energy, while leaf or extract powders were associated with improved sleep.

• Adverse Effects and Consistency: A higher incidence of adverse effects was reported with increased doses from products like gummies and capsules. The research underscores that the lack of standardization in the kratom market leads to unpredictable effects and highlights the need for clear safety guidelines.
  

One of the key findings is related to the presentation of the product. The most commonly consumed were pills, gummies and powder formulations. The higher the alcaloid concentration, the higher the risk of dependence.