Kratom is an addictive, opioid-like drug that can cause serious harm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 23, 2026
Media Contact: Matt Connelly, Matt@LearnAboutSAM.org
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions (FDPS) today urged young people and families to understand the risks associated with kratom following the deaths of two University of Mississippi students. Authorities have said packaged kratom sold from a retail store was found during both investigations, though the cause of either death has not yet been determined.
“Two young people are dead, and our first thoughts are with their families and friends. We do not yet know what caused these deaths, and we should not get ahead of the facts. What we do know is that kratom is an addictive, opioid-like drug that can cause serious harm and is being falsely marketed as a benign herbal remedy. We have been warning about its risks for years, and young people deserve to understand those risks now. Congress has failed to act after years of warnings, leaving these products widely available while young people and families remain exposed to serious risks,” said Dr. Kevin A. Sabet, President and CEO of the Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions.
Sabet, a three-time White House drug policy adviser, has warned for years about kratom’s opioid-like effects, addiction potential, and widespread availability in convenience stores. Earlier this year, he warned in the Washington Examiner about kratom products being sold too casually despite serious addiction and health risks. He was also featured in The New York Times for his work on kratom advocacy. In July, FDPS filed formal comments with the DEA and HHS urging Schedule I placement of 7-OH and a ban on the entire kratom plant.
Dr. Sabet is available for television, radio, and print interviews on kratom, 7-OH, the developing Ole Miss story, and the broader risks of psychoactive products sold with inadequate public-health safeguards.
For the facts on kratom, see the FDPS kratom briefing. To join the FDPS campaign for a nationwide ban, visit Ban Kratom Now.
###
The Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions (FDPS) is a national drug policy think/action tank whose vision is a world in which children and families thrive, substance use is prevented, and there is rapid access to quality treatment. From prevention and recovery to smart law enforcement and better international cooperation, we are working to change the face of drug policy. Too many people are losing their lives to addiction. It is time for big change.
