Cardiovascular health in kratom users; a narrative review

Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a plant that originates in Southeast Asia and possesses unique pharmacological characteristics. It is commonly consumed in the form of tea made by boiling the leaves or using the leaves to create the powder. According to its pain-relieving effects, the prevalence of kratom use around the world has increased, which has various implications for healthcare providers. Mitragynine is a well-known active compound in kratom.

This review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on the cardiovascular effects of mitragynine and its potential cardiotoxicity through the literature.

Authors searched PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases using appropriate search strategies for each database. After the screening, all relevant studies were included.

Although kratom may have the potential for therapeutic benefits, it has been associated with multi-organ damage and cardiac toxicity in some cases. According to the available data, tachycardia and hypertension are the most common adverse effects. Other possible cardiovascular effects include atherosclerosis, ventricular arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, dose-dependent prolonged QTc interval, myocarditis, cardiomegaly, and cardiopulmonary arrest.

While prior research has indicated the possible negative effects of mitragynine overdose on the cardiovascular system, there are no definitive conclusions, and additional investigations are needed.