Last year, 41 tons of kratom were legally imported to Sweden since the plant itself is not classified as a narcotic. Kratom is sold openly online and in stores.
Kratom in low doses gives mild stimulating and euphoric effects – according to Figueroa Sepulveda, "symptoms similar to those of amphetamines" – and in higher doses, opioid-like effects.
Juan Figueroa Sepulveda says that they have seen some spread of kratom use at the clinic, but that it has not taken off.
But it's young people who come here and get stuck in it. And there are a few who have had a hard time getting rid of it.
The use of the drug has several unwanted effects for many who seek help to quit.
Social life, school, and relationships with family can be affected, says Juan Figueroa Sepulveda.
According to the Poison Information Centre, isolated cases of death after kratom use have been confirmed, as well as epileptic seizures and the development of jaundice.
But as far as I know, we have not seen people who have fared so badly or died here in Sweden, but there are examples of it in the USA, says Figueroa Sepulveda.
