CDC Raises Kratom Safety Concerns with 1,200% Increase Calls to Poison Control Centers

CDC Data Shows Sharp Rise in Kratom Exposure Rates

A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows a steep rise in kratom-related exposure reports across the United States. According to the data, reports involving kratom increased by about 1,200% over the past decade.

These reports come from calls made to poison control centers nationwide. They provide a broad view of how often people are experiencing harmful effects after using kratom.

The number of reported incidents increased as kratom products became easier to find in stores and online. While these products are often promoted as natural remedies, the CDC’s findings suggest they can carry serious risks.

What the CDC Kratom Exposure Data Shows

The CDC report gives a clearer picture of how kratom is affecting people, especially in cases where no other substances were involved. Among single-substance kratom exposure reports:

• Most cases involved adults between 18 and 44 years old
• Men made up a larger share of reported cases
• Many people used kratom on purpose, often to manage pain or opioid withdrawal
• Outcomes ranged from mild symptoms to severe, life-threatening conditions

Common symptoms included nausea, agitation, fast heart rate, and drowsiness. In more serious cases, individuals experienced seizures or heart-related complications.

Because these cases involved only kratom, they offer strong evidence of how the substance can affect the body on its own.

Unregulated Kratom Products Create Uncertain Risks

The increase in exposure reports highlights a key issue: kratom products are not tightly regulated. This creates several risks for consumers:

• Products may vary widely in strength
• Labels may not accurately reflect what is inside
• Some products are sold in highly concentrated forms
• Contamination or added substances may be present

Without clear standards, consumers may not know what they are taking or how much is too much. The CDC’s findings may play an important role in future legal cases involving kratom. Data from poison control centers shows a clear and growing pattern of harm.

mctlaw’s Role in Kratom Litigation

mctlaw has been a leader in kratom wrongful death lawsuits. The firm has represented families in some of the earliest cases in the country.

In one case, mctlaw secured a $2.5 million jury verdict in the first kratom wrongful death trial in the United States. The firm continues to handle cases involving:

• Deaths linked to kratom use
• Products sold by widely available brands

Attorneys from the firm have also spoken before lawmakers about the risks of kratom and the need for stronger oversight.

Key Evidence in Kratom Cases

mctlaw focuses on cases involving wrongful death and severe, lasting injuries. Important records that we need to evaluate a potential case include:

• Autopsy and toxicology reports
• Medical records showing symptoms and cause of death
• Proof of product use, such as receipts or packaging
• Information about the specific brand used

Contact mctlaw for More Information

mctlaw offers free kratom wrongful death and injury case evaluations. The team will review the facts, explain potential options, and help determine the next steps.