More US states push to ban kratom drink deemed ‘gas-station heroin’ (opens original article in a new tab)

More US states are considering or implementing bans on kratom, a plant-based substance linked to addiction and health risks, as reports of overdoses and hospitalizations rise.

• More US states are pushing to ban kratom due to concerns over addiction and health risks.
• Kratom use has increased, with reports of addiction and side effects, though some users claim it helps with substance abuse.
• Synthetic versions of kratom, like 7-OH, are linked to a significant rise in hospitalizations and deaths.