Pharmaceutical science expert thinks FDA warning about kratom is overstated based on his research
His research did suggest some addictive qualities of kratom, but not so much to prompt the FDA to issue such a dire warning. It is quite the opposite, Hemby notes, saying the plant has a low potential for abuse. Regarding research conducted by Scott Hemby, Head of the Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences at High Point University. He has spent quite a bit of time studying kratom, specifically its two main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
According to Hemby’s research, the alkaloids in kratom do bind to opioid receptors in the body and can provide pain relief in much the same way an opioid drug does. However, the plant’s effects are not nearly as potent as most prescription painkillers legally on the market. In addition, the chemicals bind to the receptors in a much different way than opioids like heroin and oxycodone … Hemby is also wondering about the 44 kratom-related deaths cited by the FDA. Per a CNN report, the idea that the deaths were a result of kratom did not come from toxicology or autopsy reports, but from personal reports that the person ingested kratom prior to dying. These same reports also indicated other drugs were involved. For now, the FDA is content to rely on computer predictions to push a possible kratom ban agenda. Unless the agency receives and reviews valid scientific evidence that the plant provides some medicinal purpose, it will likely continue to issue warnings about a supplement millions of people around the world safely use every day.
Original Article (Inquisitr):
Kratom is a legal [plant] used by many to treat opioid addiction at home, and the FDA is not having it
Artwork Fair Use: Walter J. Pilsak
