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Source publication
Preclinical data have consistently suggested the pharmaceutical potential of kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), including as a substitute therapy in opioid dependence. In this case report, we present a case of a man with a long history of kratom use to help him cope with his opiate withdrawals while abstaining from illicit drug use. This is the first pub...
Context in source publication
Context 1
... the symptoms described from kratom withdrawal were crippling headache, body aches, chills, sweatiness, watery eyes, and loss of appetite. Furthermore, throughout the years of kratom use, he had also noticed the development of skin hyperpigmentation (Figure 4), dirty sclera, and dark circles under the eyes, which, according to him, were pathognomonic phenotypes associated with chronic kratom use. ...
Citations
Purpose of Review
This systematic review examines case reports of kratom physical dependence or addiction, focusing on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment methods and the completeness of the clinical data presented.
Recent Findings
Most peer-reviewed clinical literature on kratom physical dependence and addiction comes in the form of case reports. However, these reports often provide incomplete descriptions of complex circumstances, and there remain no standardized assessment, diagnostic, or treatment methods for patients presenting with these morbidities.
Summary
Many reports were difficult to interpret due to missing information. Despite the lack of standardized assessment and diagnostic tools for kratom addiction, withdrawal, or dependence, medications for opioid use disorder were frequently prescribed, which is problematic for opioid naïve patients. Findings suggest that case reports involving kratom should include established standardized assessments of history and symptomatology, incorporating laboratory testing where possible. Development of best practices for treatment of kratom-associated dependence or addiction is warranted.
