Health Department Warns Residents About Kratom Derivatives After Fatal Case

The Marquette County Health Department issued a public warning on Tuesday following a recent overdose death connected to kratom products available at retail stores in the county.

The department stated that pure leaf kratom has a long history of safe use, but kratom derivatives, extracts and concentrates pose a significant risk to public health.

Marquette County has experienced a recent overdose death associated with the use of kratom derivative products available for legal retail sale within the community.

Potency and Risks Explained

Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia which is often used as an herbal medicine for pain relief.

The National Institute of Health noted that much is still unknown about chemical compounds related to kratom, the short and long term health and safety impacts of kratom use and kratom's potential therapeutic uses.

While kratom or its related compounds have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as safe and effective for any medical use, people report using kratom products to alleviate drug withdrawal symptoms and cravings, particularly for opioids.

The Marquette County Health Department provided important facts about kratom derivatives, extracts and concentrates:

  • Kratom derivative products containing 7-hydroxy mitragynine or mitragynins pseudoindooxul can be up to 13 times more potent than morphine
  • Kratom products interfere with many prescription medications, such as anti-depressants, and potentially cause severe adverse outcomes
  • Kratom derivative, extract and concentrate products can cause death by respiratory depression
  • Naloxone is effective in reversing an overdose caused by kratom products
  • Naloxone is widely available within Marquette County free of charge, including at the Marquette County Health Department

Legal Status and Future Legislation

Kratom can be legally purchased by consumers of any age in the state of Michigan.

House Bill 5537, which would ban kratom in the state outright, passed the Michigan House of Representatives in March and was referred to the Committee on Government Operations.

Residents interested in information regarding free Naloxone distribution locations can call the New Points program at the Marquette County Health Department at 906-464-0064.

Annie Lippert can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. Her email address is alippert@miningjournal.net.

Source

Mining Journal — https://miningjournal.net/news/front-page-news/2026/05/marquette-county-health-department-issues-statement-on-kratom-after-recent-overdose