Warnings are spreading on social media about the herbal tonic “Feel Free,” which contains kava root and kratom, a plant with stimulant and opioid-like effects.
Why it matters: The popularity of kratom-based products like Feel Free has grown in the U.S., but experts and health officials are concerned about the potential risks and addiction associated with kratom.
The details:
- Misha Brown’s TikTok video about a teenager attempting to buy Feel Free garnered over 23 million views, revealing concerns about the product.
- Dr. Robert Levy, an addiction medicine expert, expressed concern about kratom addiction, stating, “I’ve seen and treated kratom addiction many times.”
- John from South Carolina shared his experience with Feel Free addiction on TikTok, spending around $30,000 on the product and resorting to theft.
- Botanic Tonics, the company behind Feel Free, settled an $8.75 million lawsuit in 2023 and updated their labels to highlight potential addiction risks.
The FDA cautions that kratom is “not appropriate for use as a dietary supplement” due to a lack of information on potential risks.
What they’re saying:
- “We support very tough regulations on kratom products. We are aware of reports linking Feel Free to addiction.” – Mac Haddow, American Kratom Association
- “I’ve seen and treated kratom addiction many times.” – Dr. Robert Levy, addiction medicine expert
The other side: Advocates have previously pushed back against attempts by the DEA to classify kratom compounds as Schedule I substances.
What’s next: The FDA has recommended the Justice Department classify 7-OH, a potent compound in kratom, as an illicit substance, which would restrict 7-OH products but not plant-based kratom like Feel Free.