Kratom-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

Abstract

The alkaloid derivatives of Mitragyna speciosa, commonly known as kratom, pose a threat to society due to its potential for abuse, adverse reactions and tendency to be used as self-medication for opioid withdrawal, pain and mood disorders. A number of deaths have been reported along with complications such as respiratory depression, cardiopulmonary arrest, torsade de pointes and seizures. Its various effects and potential are yet to be fully studied. We describe the case of a healthy young male who presented with progressive respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation. Imaging revealed multifocal lung infiltrates while extensive infectious and cardiac work-up was negative. Based on the clinical course, a diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by kratom was made. The patient showed gradual clinical improvement and was weaned off supplemental oxygen. This case highlights yet another adverse reaction to kratom and the growing threat posed by its use.

Presence of kratom in opioid overdose deaths: findings from coroner postmortem toxicological report

“…One case report described an individual self-treating opioid withdrawal with kratom developing a seizure when use was combined with modafinil ( 17 ). Independent kratom use has been reported to induce various medical and psychiatric problems, including seizures ( 18 , 19 ), liver injury ( 20 ), hyperkalemia ( 21 ), acute respiratory distress syndrome ( 22 ), and psychosis ( 23 , 24 ).…”