Why did FDA seize kratom?

FDA based its initial import halt of kratom on the lack of evidence establishing its safety, as well as concerns regarding its toxicity in multiple organ systems.

What is kratom and what are the benefits?

Kratom is believed to act on opioid receptors. At low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, making users feel more energetic. At higher doses, it reduces pain and may bring on euphoria. At very high doses, it acts as a sedative, making users quiet and perhaps sleepy.

When was kratom first sold in the US?

Kratom was first introduced into the US in the late 1990s and for years its use was very limited. In recent years kratom use has become much more common, possibly because of the opiate epidemic and people trying to use kratom to reduce their dependence on opiates.

What supplement did the FDA just ban?

FDA Confirms N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is Excluded From the Dietary Supplement Definition and Leaves Open Potential Rulemaking to Allow the use of NAC in Dietary Supplements.

What receptors does kratom work?

Both Kratom alkaloids are reported to activate supraspinal mu- and delta- opioid receptors, explaining their use by chronic narcotics users to ameliorate opioid withdrawal symptoms.

What is the active ingredient in kratom?

Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, the two alkaloids mainly responsible for the effects of kratom, are selective and full agonists of the μ-subtype opioid receptor (MOR).

Does kratom cause memory loss?

Higher intake of kratom juice (>3 glasses daily) did not appear to impair motor, memory, attention or executive function of regular kratom users.

Why was NAC taken off the market?

In July 2020, FDA sent warning letters to companies declaring that NAC is not a lawful dietary ingredient per the FD&C Act’s drug-exclusion clause because the ingredient was first authorized for investigation as a new drug before it was marketed as a dietary supplement.

Why did they take NAC off the market?

In July of 2020, the FDA sent warning letters to specific companies stating that N-acetyle-L-cysteine (NAC) cannot be lawfully marketed as a dietary supplement. In fact it was tested as a drug in the 1960s for treatment in acetaminophen poisoning and prevention of severe liver damage.