Laguna Treatment Center, a leading addiction and co-occurring disorder treatment provider in Orange County, California, is warning the public about the growing threat of kratom and its byproducts. Kratom is an unregulated drug that produces stimulant effects at low doses and opioid-like effects at higher doses. The treatment facility has witnessed a notable increase in patient admissions for kratom dependence: in just the first five months of 2026, 25 patients sought help for kratom dependence, representing a 525% increase compared to the 4 patients who sought treatment for kratom throughout all of 2025.
Recent epidemiological data underscores the severity of the trend. A 2026 study published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report found that between 2015 and 2025, kratom-related exposure reports increased by more than 1,200%, with a notable spike in 2025. Hospitalizations linked to kratom exposure also grew significantly during this period, with kratom-only exposure hospitalizations rising 1,200% and kratom exposures involving multiple substances rising 1,300%.
Kratom is marketed as a safe “supplement” or “cure” for numerous ailments and sold legally in many states, although kratom-containing foods, supplements, and other products are now prohibited in California. Products are often promoted as supplements to increase energy, elicit relaxation, and reduce symptoms of opioid withdrawal. However, there are no FDA-approved uses of the substance. Kratom can cause significant physiological dependence, addiction, and severe withdrawal upon attempts to cut back or end use. “While those who sell kratom promote it as natural and non-addictive, we’re seeing the very real evidence to contradict those claims,” said Trace Swartzfager, Executive Director of Laguna Treatment Center.
The facility offers comprehensive residential care for individuals struggling with kratom and other substance use disorders, including treatment for co-occurring mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and PTSD, as well as a chronic relapse program. “Addiction to kratom can happen quickly, but recovery happens with the right help,” said Chris Cummins, Chief Operating Officer. Laguna Treatment Center encourages insurance providers to expand and prioritize coverage for those seeking treatment for kratom misuse.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://nynewscast.com/laguna-treatment-center-warns-of-concerning-increase-in-patients-seeking-help-for-kratom-addiction-225620/