Family warns about kratom after son's death

A tragic incident highlights the risks associated with over-the-counter kratom supplements.

Family warns of dangers after son dies from kratom overdose

A family from Washington issued a warning about kratom after their son, Jordan McKibban, died from using the supplement in 2022. His mother, Pam Mauldin, revealed that he mixed kratom with lemonade before falling unconscious. Despite being marketed as a natural remedy, kratom has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for any medical use. An autopsy showed mitragynine, a compound found in kratom, was the cause of McKibban's death. National poison control centers have noted an increase in kratom exposure calls. Health officials now urge parents to educate their children about the potential dangers of kratom and related products.

This tragic incident raises serious concerns about the regulation of kratom, a substance that is both widely available and deceptively marketed. The lack of clear labeling and dosage guidelines can lead users to believe it is safe when it carries risks similar to opioids. As stories like McKibban's emerge, the push for stricter regulations on kratom and its offshoots may finally be gaining traction. The FDA's recent recommendation to classify 7-hydroxymitragynine, a more potent version, as an illicit substance reflects growing awareness but also highlights the urgent need for public education.

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The ongoing discussion on kratom regulation will be critical in safeguarding public health.