The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Food and Drug Administration are investigating a multistate outbreak of salmonella linked to products reported to contain kratom, a plant consumed for its stimulant effects and as an opioid substitute. According to CDC, 28 people in 20 states have been infected since mid-October, 11 of whom were hospitalized. No common brands or suppliers of kratom have been identified. The agencies are advising consumers to avoid kratom and kratom-containing products. “In addition to the public health concerns raised by this outbreak, kratom affects the same opioid brain receptors as morphine and appears to have properties that expose people who consume kratom to the risks of addiction, abuse and dependence,” FDA said. In other news, FDA today announced the voluntary destruction and recall of kratom-containing dietary supplements made by Divinity Products Distribution. The agency is not aware of recent reports of illness associated with the Divinity products, but asks health care professionals to report any adverse events involving kratom products to its Safety Reporting Portal.
 

Related News Articles

Headline
In a statement submitted to the House Ways and Means Committee for a hearing Feb. 6 on chronic drug shortages, AHA recommended Congress enact legislation to…
Headline
Reps. Doris Matsui, D-Calif., and Larry Bucshon, R-Ind., Jan. 12 introduced a House version of the Mapping America’s Pharmaceutical Supply Act, legislation…
Headline
In a statement submitted to the Senate Finance Committee Dec. 5 for a hearing on drug shortages and potential health policy solutions, AHA reiterated its…
Headline
Oct. 28 is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, an opportunity for the public to safely dispose of unwanted or expired tablets, capsules, patches and…
Headline
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Oct. 6 released a temporary rule extending telehealth…
Headline
The House Energy and Commerce Committee held a hearing on legislative proposals to prevent and respond to generic drug shortages. In comments submitted…