An estimated 3 million Americans use kratom products for recreational purposes, in self-treatment of opiate addiction, and to manage pain. Yet, our scientific understanding of its safety, efficacy, and potential for addiction is still poorly understood. With new data emerging each year, scientists are starting to gain a better picture of the full spectrum of risks and benefits of this SE Asian medicinal herb. Our guest this week, Dr. Christopher McCurdy, is an internationally recognized expert on kratom. Chris is a Professor of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutics at the University of Florida College of Pharmacy, where he also directs the UF Translational Drug Development Core. We address questions like:
1) What is kratom? Where does it come from and how does its traditional use differ from the ways it is consumed in the USA?
2) What are the major active compounds found in kratom and how much variation is there in different products?
3) What are the side effects of chronic versus acute use of kratom?
4) Are there any drugs you should avoid taking in combination with kratom?
#kratom #MedicinalPlants #Pain #Addiction #tea #Herbs #HerbalSafety #Stimulant #Science
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Kratom: Uses, Risks, and Research Insights with Dr. Christopher McCurdy
00:00 Welcome to Foodie Pharmacology: Exploring Kratom
00:38 Meet Dr. Christopher McCurdy: A Kratom Research Expert
02:35 Kratom's Traditional Uses vs. Modern Applications
07:03 Investigating Kratom's Chemical Complexity and Potential Uses
29:46 Exploring the Safety and Interactions of Kratom
33:50 Exploring the Chronic Effects of Kratom
34:40 The Increasing Tolerance and Dose Escalation in Kratom Users
36:53 Side Effects and Interactions of Kratom
38:10 Kratom's Impact on Pregnancy and Newborns
41:53 Understanding Kratom Usage and Its Scope
44:39 Navigating Resources and Future Research Directions
48:48 Collaborative Opportunities and Closing Remarks