Kratom Use Surges in the US: Rising Addiction and Mental Health Concerns

Kratom use in the United States is increasing, particularly among young adults, according to a new national study that also highlights its links to addiction and mental health issues. This is the first known national study to examine kratom use patterns and their association with mental health and substance use disorders.

Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia, sold online and in some stores as powders, liquid shots, pills, and teas. While opponents argue it is addictive and accessible to children, proponents claim it offers a natural alternative for managing various ailments.

Given the evolving policy landscape surrounding kratom in the US, researchers emphasized the importance of recent data to assess usage rates—including among children—and its connections to mental health and substance use disorders. Sean Esteban McCabe, a professor at the University of Michigan School of Nursing and principal investigator, stated, “It was an important time to conduct a national study with recent data to examine how many people—including children—use kratom, and its associations with mental health and substance use disorder.” The study was published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine.

Key Findings from the Kratom Study

• Lifetime use: More than 5 million people in the US have used kratom, including over 100,000 children aged 12–17.
• Rising trends: Kratom use is at an all-time high, with about 1.9% of Americans aged 12 and older reporting lifetime use in 2024, up from 1.6% in 2021.
• High-risk groups: Adults aged 21–34 reported the highest usage rates, with 3.4% having tried kratom and 1% using it in the past year.
• Mental health and addiction: Most users have a substance use disorder, report cannabis use, and many experience serious psychological distress or major depression.

Regulatory and Health Concerns

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved kratom for any medical use, and federal agencies have warned about potential risks, including addiction and serious side effects. The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has flagged kratom as a drug or chemical of concern.

McCabe, who also directs the Center for the Study of Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking and Health (DASH), noted that synthetic derivatives like 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine)—marketed as legal morphine—are often sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and online in tablets, gummies, and drinks. These products can be five to 50 times more potent than regular kratom.

Study Limitations and Policy Implications

The researchers clarified that the study does not prove kratom causes addiction or mental health problems. Since the survey captures a single point in time, it cannot determine whether kratom use preceded or resulted from mental health symptoms. However, the study highlights the urgent need for policy action to restrict access to kratom, particularly for children, and to improve addiction and mental health treatment.

McCabe added, “Policy changes are warranted to limit access to kratom by children and that better addiction and mental health treatment is needed.”