University of Florida expert discusses kratom's potential benefits and regulatory concerns

The Louisiana Legislature's Health and Welfare Committee convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the regulation of kratom, a plant increasingly used in the United States for its potential medicinal benefits. The meeting featured testimony from a leading expert in medicinal chemistry, who emphasized the need for stricter regulations and labeling requirements for kratom products.

The expert, a professor at the University of Florida and a recognized authority on kratom, highlighted the plant's historical use in Southeast Asia for enhancing mood and alleviating pain, particularly in the context of the ongoing opioid crisis. He noted that while kratom has shown promise in helping individuals reduce dependence on opioids and other substances, the rise in its use has also led to an increase in reported adverse events.

Significant amendments to the proposed legislation were discussed, including stricter labeling requirements. The expert advocated for a specific warning against kratom use during pregnancy, citing ongoing research to understand its effects. He also pointed out that the abuse potential of kratom is largely associated with a specific alkaloid, 7-hydroxymitragynine, which is not naturally present in the plant but can be produced through chemical processes. This has raised concerns about the proliferation of synthetic kratom products that mimic opioids and lack FDA approval.

The committee was informed that while there have been reports of deaths associated with kratom use, these often involved other substances. The expert reiterated the importance of dosage regulation, comparing kratom to other over-the-counter medications. He confirmed that while there are guidelines for kratom labeling, there is currently no regulated dosage for consumers.

The discussion also touched on the potential therapeutic applications of kratom, particularly in treating opioid addiction. Although animal studies have shown promise, the expert acknowledged that no controlled clinical trials have been conducted on humans yet.

In conclusion, the committee's deliberations underscored the need for a balanced approach to kratom regulation, aiming to harness its medicinal potential while safeguarding public health. The next steps will involve further examination of the proposed amendments and continued research into the safety and efficacy of kratom products.