Mitragynine

Type
Psychoactive
Legal status
Psychoactive Substances Act 2016
Legal implications
Personal possession is not controlled; however possession in a custodial institution is illegal and carries a penalty of up to two years in prison and/or a fine.
Production, supply, offer to Supply, possession with intent to supply and importation or exportation will be illegal. These offences carry a penalty of up to seven years in prison and/or a fine.
Synonyms
  • Biak-Biak
Information

Mitragynine is an indole alkaloid from the plant Mitragyna speciosa (Kratom). It has stimulatory, antinociceptive, and opiate-like effects, acting through noradrenergic, serotonergic, and opioid receptors. Traditionally, fresh or dried kratom leaves are chewed or made into tea; they are seldom smoked. At a low dose, kratom has stimulant effects and is used to combat fatigue during long working hours. At high dosages, however, it can have sedative-narcotic effects. It is also used in traditional medicine and as an opium substitute.

Short term effects

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea are common. There are also reports of skin hyperpigmentation, tremor, nystagmus, anorexia, weight loss and psychosis after chronic use.

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