Kratom Facts

#DYK | kratom can affect memory, mood, and even breathing?

Kratom use can affect your brain and body (impacting memory, mood, and even breathing) so protect your development and choose to stay healthy.

Myth

Kratom products aren’t a big deal and is perfectly safe.

Fact

Kratom usage can have multiple negative effects on your brain and body. Using kratom can cause nausea, dizziness, trouble breathing, faster or slower heartbeat, anxiety, irritability, memory problems, depression, and physical, social, or chemical dependence.

Myth

It’s natural, so it’s safe.

Fact

While Kratom does come from a tree, there is no oversight into how it is made, what other compounds it contains, and how strong it is. It is not approved for medicinal use in the US, so there is virtually no regulation surrounding it’s manufacturing, which is a big problem!

Myth

Kratom only comes in capsules.

Fact

Kratom can be processed into different product types, including pills, powders, and drinks. It can vary wildly in color, and can easily be mistaken for other drugs. It can also come in unassuming packaging, especially packaging designed to make you think it is perfectly harmless. This couldn’t be further from the truth!

If you see someone who may be overdosing on drugs, immediately call 911!

Remember Good Samaritan Law

Don’t be afraid to call 911 if you’re at a party where drugs are present, and/or you are under the influence of drugs. You cannot get in trouble because you are protected by the Good Samaritan Law. The Good Samaritan Law allows people to call 911 to get help for others who are overdosing without fear of being arrested for having or using drugs.

Learn More

Taking chances isn’t always bad—it’s part of growing up. But not thinking through consequences can be dangerous when it comes to decisions about drugs and alcohol. Find out how any drug use negatively affects the teen brain.

Parents learn more at TalkNowAZ.com

Need to Talk to someone?

Whether it has been a bad day, or you just need someone to listen, reach out now. Talk or text 24/7 with these resources designed to support youth:

  • 911 Emergency Services

  • 988 Crisis Lifeline

  • Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

  • State Crisis Line: 844-534-4673

  • OAR Line: 1-888-688-4222

Sources: NIDA, CDC, SAMHSA

This publication was made possible by grant number H79TI083320 from SAMHSA. The views, opinions and content of this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or policies of SAMHSA or HHS.