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Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, where its leaves have been used for generations to support energy, focus, and pain relief. Traditionally, individuals in countries like Thailand and Indonesia would chew the leaves or brew them into tea. In recent years, kratom has entered the U.S. market as a widely available plant-based product, often marketed as a natural alternative for wellness support. However, kratom acts as an opioid inside the body binding to the same receptors in the brain as any other opioid drug.
Its effects can vary depending on the amount consumed. Lower amounts are often described as stimulating, while higher amounts may produce more sedative or pain-relieving effects, including death. However, Kratom is not regulated in the same way as many dietary supplements or medications, and concerns have been raised about product quality, inconsistent potency, potential side effects, and the risk of dependence or adverse reactions. In 2014, the FDA issued Import Alert 54-15 directing inspectors to seize products that appeared to contain kratom. This was done because the FDA concluded there was insufficient evidence to prove that kratom did not present a significant or unreasonable risk of illness or injury. By March of 2026, the CDC reported there had been a 1,200% increase in poison control reports related to kratom use from 2015 to 2025 with most involving young men between the ages of 20 to 39.
Consumers may not always be fully informed about the risks, particularly when products are mislabeled or contaminated. Despite these risks, kratom is still available for purchase in the state of Florida. The Florida legislature did pass the Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act in 2023 (§ 500.92, Fla. Stat.). But the statute only made it unlawful to sell/furnish kratom directly/indirectly to any person under the age of 21. Sarasota County took a stiffer approach classifying kratom as a designer drug and banning the possession, sale, and use of kratom products back in 2014.
From a legal perspective, cases involving kratom-related injury or death can present complex issues. Depending on the facts, potential claims may include:
- Product Liability: Allegations that a kratom product was contaminated, adulterated, or defectively manufactured.
- Failure to Warn: Claims that sellers or manufacturers did not adequately disclose known or foreseeable risks.
- Negligence: Improper distribution, design, marketing, or sale of unsafe or mislabeled products.
- Strict liability
- Underage sales
Because kratom exists in a developing regulatory landscape, these cases often require detailed investigation into product sourcing, labeling, chemical composition, and the presence of other substances.
If You or a Loved One Has Been Harmed
If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury or death after consuming kratom or a kratom-based product, it may be appropriate to evaluate whether legal remedies are available. An attorney can assess the specific circumstances, including medical evidence, product history, and potential third-party responsibility.
Each case depends on its unique facts, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Our firm is committed to helping individuals and families navigate these situations and seek accountability where appropriate. We encourage you to contact us for a confidential consultation to discuss your case.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.able evidence. So, if you were injured in a roadway construction zone, give W. Lee Clark & Associates a call. We are experienced roadway construction zone attorneys. We know the road to recovery.
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You should be aware of the factors that determine who is liable and how you can seek compensation if you were injured or someone you love was hurt in a construction accident. Contact our consultation team to find out just how hard W. Lee Clark & Associates is going to fight for you.
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