Kratom Concerns in Central PA

Dauphin County Coroner Graham Hetrick is calling for stricter regulations, and potentially an outright ban, on kratom, a widely available but largely unregulated substance sold in convenience stores and gas stations across Pennsylvania. Hetrick says the drug, which has opioid-like effects, has been linked to local deaths and poses serious health risks, including seizures, liver failure, and, in some cases, death. He is urging parents to be aware of its availability and calling on state lawmakers to take action.Joining the conversation are Dr. Sara Kawasaki, Division Director of Addiction Services at Penn State College of Medicine, and Dr. Robb Bassett, Associate Medical Director of the Poison Control Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and an expert in emergency medicine, medical toxicology, and addiction medicine. Together, they discuss what kratom is, why it remains controversial, the potential benefits and risks associated with its use, and what increased regulation could mean for public health and safety in Pennsylvania.