Kratom use disorder: a primer for primary care physicians.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Kratom is an opioid-like substance with rising prevalence in the US.
• It is legally accessible and often undetected by standard drug screens.
• Increasing kratom use poses significant public health concerns due to potential adverse effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology and pharmacology of kratom.
• To provide a framework for primary care physicians to manage kratom use disorder.
• To increase awareness of kratom's risks and clinical implications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of kratom's epidemiology and pharmacology.
• Analysis of clinical case reports and existing research on kratom use.
• Development of clinical guidance for primary care settings.

Main Results:

• Kratom use is increasing, with millions engaging annually.
• Standard drug screens often miss kratom detection.
• Kratom use disorder presents unique challenges in primary care.

Conclusions:

• Primary care physicians must be educated on kratom's effects and risks.
• A systematic approach is needed for identifying and treating kratom use disorder.
• Further research is warranted to understand long-term impacts and effective treatments.