‘Like a heroin horror story:’ Kratom overdose risks on the rise in west Kentucky WPSD Local 6
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PADUCAH — Over the years, the number of kratom retailers have been on the rise, with the pseudo-medication now available at smoke shops and convenience stores around the country.
Kratom is derived from the kratom plant, which is native to Southeast Asia and has been used for centuries as a stimulant and to help people sleep.
Marketed today as a dietary supplement, many manufacturers claim it can treat depression, pain, insomnia, and even opioid addiction, but physicians say in high doses it can be fatal.
Dr. Allison Rains is a physician and the director of Emergency Services at Baptist Health Paducah and said they see several instances of kratom overdose every week.
