Between 2015 and 2025, poison control centers across the United States recorded a staggering 1,200% increase in calls related to kratom exposure. The University of Virginia Health system released an analysis detailing the sharp escalation in cases, with reports reaching a peak of 3,434 in 2025. This figure represents a massive leap from just 258 cases recorded a decade prior. The rapid increase includes a significant spike last year tied to wider availability of kratom and the growing strength of newer products.
Serious health outcomes involving kratom have risen in tandem with the volume of exposure reports nationwide. Hospitalizations linked solely to the substance increased by more than 1,150%, climbing from 43 cases in 2015 to 538 in 2025. When combined with other substances, hospitalizations surged nearly 1,300% during the same period. These numbers indicate a severe strain on emergency medical resources across the country.
Mortality data indicates a growing risk associated with the substance over the last ten years of monitoring. During the study period, 233 deaths were associated with kratom use, though 184 of those involved multiple substances. Researchers emphasize that the combination of kratom with illegal drugs or antidepressants significantly elevates the risk of serious medical outcomes. Some cases also involved liver damage linked to unregulated consumption patterns and potent extracts.
National Data Trends
Researchers led by Rita Farah, PhD, MPH, PharmD, analyzed kratom-related calls reported to the National Poison Data System. They found a steady rise from 2015 through 2019, followed by a plateau from 2020 to 2024, and then a sharp surge in 2025. This pattern highlights the sudden change in consumption habits or product potency in recent years. The data underscores the need for immediate federal attention to emerging health risks facing the public.
The Substance Explained
Kratom is derived from the leaves of a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally, users chew the leaves or brew them into tea to manage pain or enhance mood. The substance acts as both a stimulant and a sedative, leading some individuals to use it for opioid withdrawal symptoms. Its effectiveness in reducing opioid cravings has not been thoroughly evaluated by medical professionals.
Unregulated Products
Safety concerns are heightened because U.S. products often contain undisclosed ingredients and greater potency than natural leaves. Because the products are not regulated, consumers cannot verify the concentration of active chemicals like mitragynine. This lack of oversight complicates medical treatment when patients present with adverse reactions. Kratom itself has also been linked to possible liver damage in some instances. Some extracts may contain 7-hydroxymitragynine, which has complex pharmacological actions.
"The data reflects a concerning trend," said researcher Chris Holstege, MD, the director of UVA Health's Blue Ridge Poison Center. He noted that the national data aligns with local clinical practice, where more patients present following serious complications. He warned that products contain chemicals with complex pharmacological actions that can cause drug interactions. The director stressed the importance of public awareness regarding these potential dangers.
Over the 10-year period, more than 14,400 kratom exposures were reported to the National Poison Data System. Most cases involved men, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, though reports increased among people ages 40 to 59. In 2025, 60% of cases involving multiple substances resulted in serious medical outcomes. About half of these severe cases required hospitalization for immediate care.
Regulatory and Public Health Implications
Experts are calling for closer monitoring of kratom products and increased public education regarding safety risks. Dr. Holstege warned that products contain chemicals with complex pharmacological actions that can cause drug interactions. The trend suggests a marked increase in kratom-associated products being sold in the U.S. market. Future policy decisions will need to address the unregulated nature of these substances and protect consumers. Health officials recommend avoiding the mixing of kratom with other medications to prevent adverse events.
