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Should NH regulate kratom?

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On Wednesday, April 13 a House committee will hold a public hearing on SB 540, a bill to ban the use of kratom by anyone under age eighteen.

Kratom is an herb that acts as a stimulant in small doses and a sedative in larger doses.  Kratom is not regulated by the federal government.

Supporters of kratom argue that the plant can be used to ease the effects of opiate withdrawal, helping addicts stop using drugs such as heroin and fentanyl.

According to Botanical Legal Defense, “The medical literature is clear that Kratom possesses valuable therapeutic potential with a proven track record of safety and efficacy when used in a responsible manner for the appropriate reasons.”

Supporters of a ban counter that kratom can be addicting on its own and can cause health problems in high doses.

According to the federal Drug Enforcement Agency, “Several cases of psychosis resulting from use of kratom have been reported, where individuals addicted to kratom exhibited psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations, delusion, and confusion.” 

SB 540 was originally written to ban kratom for all residents.  After the Senate amended the bill to only ban kratom among minors, some pro-Kratom organizations are supporting the bill.

What is your opinion on kratom?  Let us know in the comments.

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