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Chronic Kratom Use as a Potential Risk Factor for Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source: A Case Report
Zhuo Luan1, Seunghong Rhee2, Paisith Piriyawat1
1Neurology, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, USA.
Cureus
|July 24, 2026
Summary
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) use may be linked to ischemic stroke. A case study found an embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) in a patient with no other risk factors after two years of daily kratom consumption.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
- Herbal Medicine
Background:
- Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a popular herbal supplement with opioid-like and stimulant effects.
- The U.S. FDA has warned about kratom's potential toxicity, including cardiovascular and neurological risks.
- The association between kratom use and ischemic stroke is not well-established.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Ischemic Stroke l: Introduction
Ischemic stroke is an acute cerebrovascular condition in which blood flow to a brain region is suddenly interrupted, leading to tissue infarction. Neurons depend on continuous oxygen and glucose supply, so even brief reductions in perfusion cause energy failure, ionic imbalance, and irreversible injury. Ischemic strokes are classified into thrombotic and embolic types based on their underlying mechanisms.Thrombotic MechanismsThrombotic stroke develops when a clot forms within a cerebral artery.
01:17Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction
A hemorrhagic stroke is an acute neurological event that occurs when a weakened cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to accumulate within or around the brain. The sudden release of blood forms a focal hematoma that increases intracranial pressure, displaces neural tissue, and can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid pathways. These effects may be compounded by intraventricular extension of the hemorrhage, cerebral edema, or compression of adjacent structures, all of which contribute to...