Agencies Investigating Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Kratom

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Food and Drug Administration are investigating a multistate outbreak of salmonella linked to products reported to contain kratom, a plant consumed for its stimulant effects and as an opioid substitute. According to CDC, 28 people in 20 states have been infected since mid-October, 11 of whom were hospitalized. No common brands or suppliers of kratom have been identified. The agencies are advising consumers to avoid kratom and kratom-containing products. “In addition to the public health concerns raised by this outbreak, kratom affects the same opioid brain receptors as morphine and appears to have properties that expose people who consume kratom to the risks of addiction, abuse and dependence,” FDA said. In other news, FDA today announced the voluntary destruction and recall of kratom-containing dietary supplements made by Divinity Products Distribution. The agency is not aware of recent reports of illness associated with the Divinity products, but asks health care professionals to report any adverse events involving kratom products to its Safety Reporting Portal.