Kratom Litigation

Kratom, a plant-derived herbal supplement often marketed as “natural” and “safe,” has gained popularity across the U.S. for its alleged energy-boosting and pain-relieving effects. However, behind the marketing claims lies a growing body of evidence linking Kratom to serious health risks, including addiction, organ failure, psychiatric episodes, and even death. 

   

At Anderson Alexander, we are taking legal action on behalf of individuals and families harmed by unsafe Kratom products. Our firm is actively investigating cases involving injury or death resulting from Kratom use and pursuing litigation against manufacturers, distributors, and sellers that failed to warn consumers of the dangers associated with this substance. 

   

What Is Kratom? 

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds that act on the brain’s opioid receptors, leading some users to consume it for pain relief, increased energy, or mood enhancement. 

   

Despite its herbal origin, Kratom can produce effects similar to opioids and carries similar risks. Though widely available in smoke shops, gas stations, and online retailers, Kratom is not regulated as a medication, and the FDA or any other federal agency has not confirmed its safety. 

   

Widespread Use Despite Known Dangers 

Kratom usage in the U.S. is more prevalent than many people realize. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 1.7 million Americans aged 12 and older used Kratom in 2021. 

   

While some users report short-term benefits, healthcare professionals have documented severe and sometimes fatal side effects, including: 

  • Addiction and withdrawal symptoms 
  • Seizures and hallucinations 
  • Liver and kidney damage 
  • Heart palpitations and high blood pressure 
  • Respiratory depression 
  • Gastrointestinal issues 
  • Death, often due to overdose or contamination 

 

In many cases, users were unaware of the risks or assumed the product was safe due to its “natural” branding. 


FDA Warnings and Federal Oversight 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken a strong stance against Kratom: 


  • The FDA has not approved Kratom for any medical use. 
  • In 2014, the FDA issued an import alert allowing authorities to detain Kratom-containing products without physical examination. 
  • The agency has repeatedly warned that Kratom poses risks of addiction, abuse, and serious health consequences. 
  • It is currently illegal to market Kratom as a dietary supplement, drug, or food additive under U.S. law. 

   

Despite these warnings, Kratom remains widely available in the U.S., often sold without appropriate labeling, safety standards, or oversight. 

 

State-Level Legislative Actions 

While Kratom is not banned at the federal level, several states have enacted their own laws to regulate or prohibit its sale: 

Alabama (2016): Classified Kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance, placing it in the same category as heroin and LSD. 

Georgia (2019): Passed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, which requires manufacturers to meet specific quality standards and prohibits sales to individuals under 18. 

Texas (2023): Enacted the Kratom Consumer Health and Safety Protection Act, mandating lab testing and product registration for manufacturers, and banning the sale of contaminated or adulterated Kratom products. 

   

These laws reflect growing concern about the dangers of unregulated Kratom use. 

 

Who May Qualify for a Kratom Lawsuit? 

You may be eligible to file a lawsuit if you or a loved one experienced any of the following after using Kratom: 

  • Severe organ damage (liver, kidneys, heart) 
  • Addiction or withdrawal symptoms 
  • Psychiatric hospitalization or mental health crisis 
  • Overdose 
  • Wrongful death 

   

We are particularly focused on cases where Kratom was marketed deceptively, lacked appropriate warnings, or was contaminated or improperly manufactured. 

 

Why Legal Action Is Necessary 

Kratom litigation is essential for several reasons: 

  • Accountability: Companies must be held responsible for selling dangerous products under misleading claims. 
  • Public Safety: Legal pressure can help improve industry standards and force regulatory action. 
  • Compensation: Victims and their families may be entitled to financial recovery for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, or wrongful death. 

   

If you or a loved one has suffered serious health consequences after using Kratom, you may be eligible to pursue a claim. These lawsuits may proceed as mass torts or individual actions, depending on the nature of the harm and the number of affected individuals. 

   

How Anderson Alexander Can Help 

At A2X, we represent individuals who have suffered serious injury or lost loved ones due to Kratom-related complications. Our team investigates every aspect of the case, from product sourcing and labeling to toxicology reports and corporate accountability. 

 

If you believe Kratom use has led to serious health consequences for you or someone you care about, it’s important to explore your legal options. We are actively reviewing claims and pursuing litigation to help affected individuals seek justice and hold negligent companies accountable. Please get started by filling out our online contact form today when you request a consultation. 

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