freebeacon
Charles Fain Lehman
February 8, 2018 5:00 am
[excerpt]
http://freebeacon.com/issues/fda-calls-controversial-supplement-kratom-opioid/Kratom, the controversial drug proponents of which argue could help combat the opioid epidemic, contains opioid compounds and has the potential for abuse, according to a report issued by the Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday.
"As the scientific data and adverse event reports have clearly revealed, compounds in kratom make it so it isn't just a plant—it's an opioid," FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb said.
Kratom refers to a plant originating in southeast Asia, where its leaves are chewed to relieve pain, improve mood, and as a stimulant. In recent years it has spread to the United States, where it is sold in pill form, consumed in tea, or smoked.
