Kratom is a product derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, that produces opioid-like effects by binding to opioid receptors in the brain.
Marketed for pain relief, anxiety, and increased energy, kratom products are widely available in North Dakota in various unregulated forms, including powders, capsules, gummies, extracts, and beverages, and highly concentrated 7-OH variants, often sold openly in gas stations, convenience stores, and tobacco shops.
These compounds are associated with significant risks of dependence, addiction, withdrawal symptoms, seizures, liver toxicity, and other adverse health outcomes, as highlighted by repeated warnings from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There are no approved uses for kratom and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has listed it as a drug and chemical of concern.
Kratom is a health crisis
24 deaths
where kratom was a primary (23) or contributing (1) cause of death since 2019.
Serious effects
Opiate-like effects at high doses and highly addictive; DEA has listed kratom as Drug and Chemical of Concern.
Unregulated and unrestricted
No kratom products are FDA approved.
Kratom products (gummies, drinks) are widely sold in North Dakota convenience stores and smoke shops with no age requirements.
Common Questions
There are no FDA-approved synthetic kratom products. 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and related compounds are potent novel opioids that can pose serious health risks.
Kratom products pose serious health risks, including addiction, seizures, liver toxicity and death.
Kratom has not been established as safe for any use. No forms of kratom, botanical or otherwise, are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any use. There are no standards for dosing, purity, or manufacturing practices. Consumers have no reliable way to know what substances, contaminants, or concentrations are in kratom products.
If you suspect 7-OH poisoning, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate guidance. If the person is unresponsive, administer naloxone and call 911 immediately. Naloxone is available over-the-counter for purchase, or for free at your local public health unit or by requesting it here.
Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator or healthcare professional, understanding the facts can help you recognize concerns early and support healthy choices. Find more resources at ParentsLead.
Health Statistics
Find Treatment Services
Need help?
North Dakotans seeking treatment services can search the Behavioral Health Program Directory.
In a crisis, call or text 988 anytime.
If someone suspects kratom poisoning, call poison control: 1-800-222-1222
If unresponsive, administer naloxone and call 911.