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The 730 nm Picosecond Titanium Sapphire Laser for Treatment of Kratom-Induced Hyperpigmentation
Alanoud A Alhadyani1, Christen Samaan2, Girish S Munavalli1,3
1Dermatology, Laser, & Vein Specialists of the Carolinas, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA.
Objectives:
This case series reports the use of the 730-nm picosecond titanium-sapphire laser in the treatment of kratom-induced hyperpigmentation, a dermatological side effect associated with the use of Mitragyna speciosa, which remains poorly understood.
Methods:
A series of patients with kratom-induced hyperpigmentation were treated using the 730-nm picosecond titanium-sapphire laser. Treatment outcomes were documented by assessing the degree of pigmentation improvement and noting the occurrence of any adverse effects or recurrence of hyperpigmentation.
Results:
All patients showed significant improvement in the appearance of hyperpigmentation following treatment. No adverse effects or recurrence of hyperpigmentation were observed during the follow-up period.
Conclusions:
This case series represents the first documented use of the 730-nm picosecond titanium-sapphire laser for treating kratom-induced hyperpigmentation. The laser's precision and minimal tissue disruption suggest it as a promising treatment option for this challenging dermatological side effect.
