Description of Kratom Exposure Events in Wisconsin as Reported to the Wisconsin Poison Center, January 1, 2010 to September 1, 2022.

Abstract

Background: Consumption of kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), an herbal substance, can result in adverse health effects. We characterized kratom-associated adverse events in Wisconsin to provide pertinent recommendations for clinicians and public health practitioners.

Methods: Using Wisconsin Poison Center data, we searched for and summarized all records associated with exposure to "kratom," "electronic delivery device containing kratom," or "mitragyna" from January 1, 2010, to September 1, 2022.

Results: Kratom-associated exposure calls to the Wisconsin Poison Center increased 3.75 times during 2016 - 2020. Among all 59 calls, 26 (44.1%) reported concomitant use of another substance, agitation was the most common symptom reported (n = 23, 39%), and 7 persons required critical care. Three unintentional ingestions were reported in children aged less than 2 years old.

Discussion: Kratom-associated exposure calls to the Wisconsin Poison Center generally have been increasing in frequency since 2011. Wisconsinites who choose to use kratom might benefit from education regarding health risks and safe storage practices to avoid unintentional pediatric exposure.