A new University of Virginia Health analysis reveals a dramatic 1,200% increase in kratom-related poison center calls between 2015 and 2025. Hospitalizations and deaths have climbed sharply, prompting experts to urge stricter monitoring of unregulated products. The study highlights a significant spike in 2025, with 3,434 cases recorded compared to just 258 in 2015. Researchers attribute this surge to wider availability and the growing strength of newer products on the market.
Key Details
Hospitalizations involving only kratom rose more than 1,150% over the decade, climbing from 43 cases in 2015 to 538 in 2025. When kratom was combined with other substances, such as illegal drugs or antidepressants, hospitalizations increased nearly 1,300%. During the study period, 233 deaths were associated with kratom use, with 184 involving multiple substances. More than 14,400 kratom exposures were reported over the 10-year period according to the National Poison Data System.
"The data reflects a concerning trend," said researcher Chris Holstege, MD, the director of UVA Health's Blue Ridge Poison Center. "This trend found in the national data is also occurring in our local clinical practice, with more patients presenting to UVA Health following serious complications associated with kratom products."
Product Context
Kratom is derived from the leaves of a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia and traditionally used for pain relief. In the United States, kratom is widely sold in forms that are often far more potent than natural leaves. These include pills and extracts that may contain undisclosed ingredients because the products are not regulated. Kratom itself has also been linked to possible liver damage and complex pharmacological actions that can cause drug interactions.
Demographics
Over the 10-year period, most cases involved men, especially those in their 20s and 30s. However, reports also increased significantly among people ages 40 to 59, indicating broader use across age groups. In 2025, 60% of cases involving multiple substances resulted in serious medical outcomes. About half of these severe cases required hospitalization, according to the findings published by ScienceDaily.
Future Outlook
Researchers describe the trend as concerning and emphasize that using kratom can lead to serious and even fatal outcomes. Experts are calling for closer monitoring of kratom products and increased public education regarding the risks. They warn that combining kratom with alcohol, medications, or illicit drugs significantly increases the danger. "We are experiencing a marked increase in kratom associated products being sold in the U.S market," Holstege said.
Implications
The findings suggest a need for regulatory action to ensure consumer safety regarding unregulated substances. Health officials want the public to be aware that these products contain chemicals of varying concentrations. Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are chemicals that have complex pharmacological actions and can cause adverse consequences in humans. The data reflects a concerning trend that requires immediate attention from public health authorities.
