Kratom, a herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree native to Southeast Asia, has gained popularity for its opioid-like effects, including pain relief and mood enhancement. However, its safety profile, especially in vulnerable populations such as those with Alzheimer’s disease, remains highly uncertain and controversial.
Kratom contains active alkaloids like mitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects similar to opioids but with a different chemical structure. While some users report benefits such as increased energy and relaxation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about serious adverse events linked to kratom use, including liver toxicity, seizures, and even death[1]. These risks are particularly concerning for older adults or those with neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, who may be more susceptible to drug interactions and side effects.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. Current treatments focus on managing symptoms and slowing progression, often involving medications that affect neurotransmitter systems such as acetylcholine. There is no scientific evidence supporting kratom as a safe or effective treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, kratom’s opioid-like activity and potential toxicity raise significant safety concerns for this population.
Scientific research on kratom’s effects on the brain is limited and mostly focused on its analgesic and addictive properties rather than neurodegenerative diseases. The complex neural mechanisms involved in Alzheimer’s, including disruptions in neurotransmission and neural oscillations, are not known to be positively influenced by kratom. For example, treatments targeting neural oscillations or neurotransmitter balance, such as NMDA receptor antagonists like ketamine, are being studied for neurological and psychiatric conditions, but kratom’s pharmacology is distinct and less understood in this context[3].
Moreover, kratom’s unregulated status in many countries means product quality and dosage are inconsistent, increasing the risk of adverse effects. The FDA has specifically warned against certain kratom products linked to severe illness and death[1]. This unpredictability is particularly dangerous for Alzheimer’s patients, who often take multiple medications and have altered metabolism.
While kratom contains compounds like mitraphylline, which is being studied for anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties[4], these findings do not translate into evidence for safety or efficacy in Alzheimer’s disease. No clinical trials or authoritative medical guidelines recommend kratom for Alzheimer’s or any cognitive disorders.
Experts in pharmacology and drug safety emphasize the lack of solid scientific evidence supporting kratom’s benefits and highlight its potential harms. Dr. C. Michael White, a pharmacy practice professor, notes that despite consumer interest, kratom has not been proven effective for pain relief or substance use disorder treatment and carries risks of toxicity[2].
In summary, kratom is not considered safe for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease due to its opioid-like effects, potential for serious adverse events, lack of evidence for cognitive benefits, and the vulnerability of this patient group to drug-related complications. Patients and caregivers should consult healthcare professionals before considering any herbal supplements, especially those with complex neurological conditions.
Sources:
[1] FDA warnings on kratom risks and adverse events, Complete Family Care NY, 2024
[2] Expert commentary on kratom safety and efficacy, University of Connecticut, 2023
[3] Neural oscillations and neurological disorder treatments, PMC, 2023
[4] Research on mitraphylline from kratom and related plants, ScienceDaily, 2025
