Kratom is a plant-based substance that affects the brain and body. Although it is often marketed as a natural or herbal product, it can be addictive and may cause harmful side effects. Kratom can pose health risks, especially for children and teens whose brains are still developing.
Kratom changes how the brain works.
Kratom affects opioid receptors in the brain. At lower doses, it may act like a stimulant. At higher doses, it can produce effects similar to opioids, including relaxation and pain relief.
For young people, whose brains are still developing, these effects can interfere with healthy brain development, judgment and decision-making.
Teens' brains are still developing.
The brain continues developing into the mid-20s. During this time, substances that affect the brain may increase the risk of poor decision-making, impulsive behavior, difficulty learning and future substance use problems.
Kratom can be addictive.
Regular use can lead to dependence, meaning the body adapts to kratom and a person may feel like they need it to function normally.
Some people also experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using it, including:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Trouble sleeping
- Muscle aches
- Mood changes
- Nausea
Side effects can be serious.
Common side effects include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating
In larger amounts or when mixed with other substances, kratom can cause severe health problems, including seizures, breathing problems and overdose.
Mixing kratom with alcohol or other drugs increases the risk.
Using kratom with alcohol, prescription medications or other drugs can be dangerous and increase the risk of overdose, slowed breathing, impaired judgment and other medical emergencies.
Kratom products are not well regulated.
Unlike prescription medications, kratom products are not regulated for safety, quality or strength.
Products may:
- Contain much higher doses than expected.
- Be contaminated with bacteria, heavy metals or other substances.
- Contain ingredients that are not listed on the label.
“Natural” does not always mean safe.
Kratom is often marketed as a natural product, which can make it seem harmless. But plant-based products can still affect the brain and body and may carry risks.
Just because something is legal, available, or comes from a plant does not mean it is safe — especially for young people.
Be aware of possible signs of use.
A young person who is using kratom may show changes such as:
- Suddenly becoming very energetic or unusually sleepy.
- Increased irritability or mood changes.
- Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed.
- Having powders, capsules, gummies, drinks or products with unfamiliar labels.
- Becoming secretive about purchases, packages or online activity
These signs do not always mean a young person is using kratom, but they can be opportunities for a supportive conversation.
Start the conversation early.
You don’t have to be an expert to start a conversation with a young person.
Try saying:
- “I’ve been hearing about something called kratom. Have you heard of it?”
- “What are you hearing about kratom from friends or at school?”
- “What would you do if someone offered it to you?”
- “If you’re ever unsure about something, you can always ask me.”
Open, ongoing conversations help children feel safe asking questions before they face difficult choices.
Trusted adults can make a difference.
Parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare providers and other trusted adults play an important role in preventing substance use and supporting young people.
You can help by:
- Building strong, supportive relationships with young people.
- Talking early and often about substances and healthy choices.
- Setting clear expectations around substance use.
- Helping youth develop healthy ways to manage stress and emotions.
- Staying involved and knowing what is happening in their lives.
- Connecting them with support when challenges arise.
Every conversation is an opportunity to build trust, provide support, and help young people make healthy choices.