FDA Warns Against Natural Opioid Alternative

Dec 08,2017

Photo By ThorPorre (Own work) [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about a natural opioid alternative called kratom. The herbal supplement is being promoted as a safe painkiller, which is also marketed for treating addiction, anxiety and depression.

The FDA says there is insufficient evidence that kratom is an effective treatment for any of these diseases. In fact, it can actually cause serious problems, such as seizures and liver damage.

Poison Control Centers See Rise in Calls About Natural Opioid Alternative

Poison control centers experienced a tenfold rise in calls regarding kratom from 2010 to 2015. The FDA reports at least 36 deaths from the use of the supplement.

A formal FDA review on the product is in progress. In the meantime, the agency has begun seizing supplies of kratom and working to prevent future shipments of the supplement. Kratom is made from a plant that grows in Asia.

“The companies marketing this questionable product to people who really need proper medical care for their diseases need to be held accountable. If a drug has not been approved by the FDA, consumers should be very wary about using it,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a drug and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today at (760) 777-7777 for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.