Work

Kratom's rising role in the potential exacerbation of mental health disorders: A case report and review of the literature

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: Kratom, a non-federally regulated botanical herb, is widely growing in popularity as a naturopathic alternative for mood, anxiety, and attention deficit symptoms, along with legal recreational use as a psychoactive agent. It is predominantly sold without restriction and easily accessible over the counter at naturopathic, specialty “vape” or “smoke shops” and on the internet. Kratom's most abundant alkaloids, Mytragynine (MG) and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-MG), have demonstrated multi-mechanistic properties via dopamine, serotonin, adrenergic, and mu-opioid-type receptors interaction in a dose-dependent manner. Given the reported association between Kratom consumption and its mood-altering and stimulant-like effects, we considered its role in the exacerbation of those predisposed to or with certain preexisting mental health disorders. In addition, Kratom's psychoactive compound derivatives are not detected in routine urine toxicology screens, which may pose a diagnostic obstacle when suspecting its use in critical settings such as acute mania or bipolar disorder with psychotic features. Considering its growing availability, potential for addiction, and withdrawal, the authors aim to highlight the need for further research on the potential effects of Kratom and its use as a crucial consideration during assessment, as well as the association between Kratom use and the exacerbation of those predisposed to or with certain preexisting mental health disorders. We concluded that, on balance, there was sufficient evidence to justify the plausibility of the association between Kratom ingestion in exceeding doses and the exacerbation of certain psychiatric manifestations such as psychosis.

Source: Psychiatry Research Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.psycr.2022.100069

Authors: Maxsaya Baez Nunez, Annika Dhingra, Myra Dhingra, Rachael Kossack, Monica Dhingra

Institution: New York University

Language: English

Topic: Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $900