Addictive Risks of Kratom
Interventional cardiologist Dr. Craig Basman emphasizes the addictive nature of kratom, a plant from Southeast Asia. He highlights how 7-OH compounds in concentrated kratom interact with opioid receptors, paralleling drugs like fentanyl and morphine. This interaction can result in severe addiction, potential overdose, and difficult withdrawal.
Legal Issues Emerge from Kratom Use
A serious incident in Florida underscores the dangers associated with kratom. Jerome Jonathon Jordan and Charlene Rea O’Connell face charges of aggravated manslaughter of a child and child neglect. Their two-year-old, Jonnie Jordan, reportedly consumed kratom pills, leading to her hospitalization and subsequent death.
Authorities say Jonnie ingested the pills at O’Connell’s residence and suffered symptoms like blue lips and seizures. Instead of seeking medical help, Jordan and O’Connell failed to act, prompting arrest after a police investigation.
Investigation and Medical Findings
An investigation revealed that the night after the incident, Jordan took Jonnie to a relative’s apartment instead of the hospital. By morning, he rushed her to the hospital, where she was declared dead. Jordan’s request for Narcan raised early suspicions of an overdose.
The Brevard County Medical Examiner confirmed Jonnie’s death was due to acute mitragynine intoxication. Arrests followed the investigation and medical examiner’s report, with both adults detained without bail.
Kratom’s Legal Status and Warning
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health describes kratom as a herbal product from Southeast Asia. Despite its legal status under federal law, its safety has been questioned. The DEA has started proceedings to regulate high-potency 7-OH products as Schedule I substances due to their abuse potential. Natural kratom leaf products remain unaffected.
The situation involving Jonnie Jordan serves as a cautionary tale about kratom use and its possible legal ramifications. It highlights the necessity for awareness of kratom’s effects and the importance of immediate medical attention in emergencies. Police confirmed that Jordan’s sister, where Jonnie was later taken, is not facing charges.