Kratom in the OR – The Hidden Herbal Challenge

Kratom in the OR – The Hidden Herbal Challenge

April 29, 2026 · 21 min · Episode 515

About this episode

This episode discusses the implications of kratom use in the perioperative environment and its effects on anesthetic management.

The perioperative environment is increasingly shaped by factors that extend beyond traditional pharmacology, requiring anesthesia providers to stay alert to emerging and often underrecognized influences on patient care. One such factor is the growing use of kratom, a plant-derived substance that patients frequently perceive as harmless due to its “natural” origins. However, as highlighted in today’s show, this assumption can lead to critical gaps in disclosure, leaving clinicians unaware of a substance that may significantly alter anesthetic management and patient outcomes. Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode: 🌿 Kratom acts as both a stimulant and opioid-like substance ⚠️ “Natural” does not mean safe or predictable 🧪 Potency and composition vary widely between products 😴 Patients may present with opioid tolerance or sedation 😵 Withdrawal can mimic pain, agitation, or delirium Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099 Earn MAC Dev Credit: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/special-announcement-ce-credt/ Help us grow by leaving a review…

People in this episode

Host: Beyond The Mask Podcast

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Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The 1099 CRNA Institute, NBCRNA

Products: Kratom

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