KRATOM
KRATOM NOW BANNED
Kratom, a controversial herbal substance commonly sold in gas stations and convenience stores across the nation, will soon be is officially banned in Louisiana. Governor Jeff Landry signed Senate Bill 154 (Act 41) into law on June 4. A formal signing event was held at the state Capitol on June 10. The Louisiana kratom ban was signed into law following months of heated debate and strong backing from law enforcement and public health advocates. The law officially goes went into effect on August 1, 2025, making Louisiana one of a growing number of states cracking down on the sale and possession of kratom.
WHAT IS KRATOM?
Kratom carries a number of potential health risks, particularly when used frequently, in large doses, or in combination with other substances. Although some people turn to kratom for pain relief or mood enhancement, its side effects can be serious and should not be overlooked.
The leaves of the kratom tree are harvested, dried, and then chewed, brewed into tea, or ground into a fine powder. Although kratom itself is a natural product, there are synthetic or altered versions that:
-
Contain highly concentrated kratom alkaloid extracts
-
Are blended with other chemicals or drugs
-
Are sold in the form of pills, resins, or liquid extracts
These modified forms can be far more potent and hazardous, especially when unregulated or inaccurately labeled.
Important Note: Kratom is not approved by the FDA for any medical use. The CDC and DEA have warned of potential for abuse and health risks.
SERIOUS HEALTH RISKS
Drug Interactions
-
Kratom can interact dangerously with:
-
Antidepressants
-
Benzodiazepines
-
Blood pressure medications
-
Alcohol
-
Other opioids
-
SHORT-TERM NEGATIVE EFFECTS
-
Nausea and vomiting
-
Itching
-
Sweating
-
Dry mouth
-
Constipation
-
Loss of appetite
-
Increased urination
-
Dizziness or lightheadedness
-
Anxiety or agitation
-
​Drowsiness or heavy sedation
-
Confusion or disorientation
-
Slowed breathing
-
Hallucinations or delusions
-
Seizures (rare but possible)
LONG-TERM OR CHRONIC USE EFFECTS
Dependence and Addiction
-
Users may develop tolerance and experience withdrawal symptoms similar to opioids, such as:
-
Irritability
-
Muscle aches
-
Insomnia
-
Mood swings
-
Fatigue
-
Diarrhea​
-
-
Liver and kidney damage
-
Cases of hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity) have been reported, especially with long-term use.
-
-
Cognitive impairment
-
Regular use may cause problems with memory, attention, and decision-making.
-
-
Weight loss and anorexia
-
Chronic users sometimes experience significant weight loss due to appetite suppression.
-
-
Skin darkening
-
Some users develop hyperpigmentation, especially on the cheeks.
-
-
Hormonal issues
-
Long-term use may lower testosterone levels and reduce libido.
-
