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Significant Rise in Kratom Poisoning Calls Raises Health Concerns in El Paso

KVIA•Friday, March 27, 2026 at 5:02 PM•CNN Newsource

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A recent study revealed that calls to poison centers regarding kratom, a herbal substance, surged over 1,200% from 2015 to 2025, raising alarms about its safety. In 2025 alone, there were 3,434 reports of kratom poisoning in the U.S., a stark increase from just 258 in 2015. The rise in incidents correlates with the herb's growing availability and potential for addiction, particularly among men in their 20s and 30s. Symptoms of poisoning can include severe health issues such as high blood pressure, seizures, and even death. The findings highlight the urgent need for more research and public health measures to manage the risks associated with kratom use.

Key Details: • Kratom poisoning calls rose from 258 in 2015 to 3,434 in 2025. • Hospitalizations related to kratom increased from 43 in 2015 to 538 in 2025. • 233 deaths linked to kratom were reported, with many involving other substances. • Kratom is sold in various forms at local stores, with no federal regulation. • Experts recommend more research to understand the health impacts of kratom.

health public-health addiction poisoning kratom

People & Organizations

Centers for Disease Control and PreventionUS Food and Drug AdministrationAmerican Psychiatric AssociationDr. Christopher HolstegeDr. Oliver GrundmannDr. Kirsten SmithDr. Lief FennoBlue Ridge Poison Center

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