The leaves of kratom are consumed either by chewing, or by drying and smoking, putting into capsules, tablets, bulk liquids, or extract, or by boiling into a tea. The effects are unique in that stimulation occurs at low doses and opioid-like depressant and euphoric effects occur at higher doses. Common uses include treatment of pain, to help prevent withdrawal from opiates (such as prescription narcotics or heroin), and for mild stimulation.

The FDA notes it has no scientific data that would support the use of kratom for medical purposes. In addition, the FDA states that kratom should not be used as an alternative to prescription opioids, even if using it for opioid withdrawal symptoms. FDA encourages more research to better understand kratom’s safety profile, including the use of kratom combined with other drugs. At this time, the FDA warns the public NOT to use any products labeled as containing kratom, due to reported deaths.

Effective, FDA-approved prescription medications, including buprenorphine (Sublocade), methadone, naltrexone (Vivitrol), and buprenorphine and naloxone (Suboxone) are available from a health care provider, to be used in conjunction with counseling, for opioid withdrawal. Also, they state there are also safer, non-opioid options for the treatment of pain.

In 2018 the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported it was investigating a multistate outbreak of 28 salmonella infections in 20 states linked to kratom use. They noted that 11 people had been hospitalized with salmonella illness linked to kratom. Those who fell ill consumed kratom in pills, powder or tea.