Kratom Lawsuit | Get the Right Lawyer

If you or a loved one experienced liver failure, seizures, respiratory depression, or death following kratom use, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to dangerous kratom products. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Kratom Lawsuit Overview

Kratom lawsuits are being filed against manufacturers and distributors of kratom products for causing serious health complications and deaths.

The FDA has linked kratom to at least 152 overdose deaths between 2016 and 2021. These lawsuits allege that manufacturers failed to warn consumers about serious health risks associated with their products and, in some cases, sold products contaminated with salmonella.

Latest Kratom Lawsuit Updates

• September 3, 2024 – FDA releases study linking kratom to 152 overdose deaths across the United States. The report indicates many users were unaware of the potential dangers.
• July 2024 – FDA issues first-ever “Mandatory Recall” for kratom products, forcing companies to remove all products from shelves due to serious risk concerns.
• March 2023 – Sunstone Organics recalls kratom products after testing identified the presence of salmonella bacteria. This follows multiple previous recalls for similar contamination.
• January 2023 – Kratom blamed for a 20-state salmonella outbreak affecting dozens of consumers. CDC and FDA investigations confirmed the contamination originated from multiple kratom distributors.
• November 2022 – Multiple class-action lawsuits consolidated in federal court alleging manufacturers deliberately concealed known risks of addiction and health complications.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to FDA data, kratom has been associated with:

• 152 overdose deaths between July 2016 and December 2021
• Over 1,800 reports involving serious side effects
• 23,000 emergency room visits attributed to kratom use annually
• 91 reported cases of salmonella infection linked to kratom products

The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use and has issued multiple public health advisories warning consumers about its potential dangers. The agency classifies kratom as containing mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain.

See all dangerous drugs litigations that we’ve covered.

Kratom Injuries & Side Effects

Kratom use has been associated with numerous serious health complications requiring medical intervention.

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Failure: Acute and chronic liver damage requiring hospitalization
• Seizures: Including grand mal seizures requiring emergency treatment
• Respiratory Depression: Difficulty breathing and decreased respiratory rate
• Death: Fatal respiratory and cardiac complications
• Salmonella Infection: Severe gastrointestinal illness due to contaminated products

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Itching
• Sweating
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Weight loss
• Increased sensitivity and irritability
• Hallucinations
• Insomnia
• Confusion and dizziness

Do You Qualify for a Kratom Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a kratom lawsuit if:

• You consumed kratom products between 2016 and the present
• You experienced serious side effects including liver failure, seizures, respiratory depression, or salmonella infection
• Your injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide documentation of your kratom use and subsequent injuries
• You are within the statute of limitations for your state

Evidence Required for a Kratom Lawsuit

To build a strong case, plaintiffs typically need:

• Medical records documenting diagnosis and treatment of kratom-related injuries
• Proof of kratom purchase (receipts, bank statements)
• Product packaging or remaining product (if available)
• Documentation of lost wages and ongoing medical expenses
• Expert testimony linking injuries to kratom use

Damages You Can Recover

Successful kratom lawsuits may provide compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Funeral expenses (in wrongful death cases)
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Kratom Recall Information

Multiple kratom recalls have been issued due to contamination and safety concerns:

• July 2024: FDA’s first mandatory recall for kratom affecting multiple brands
• March 2023: Sunstone Organics recall for salmonella contamination
• November 2022: Triangle Pharmanaturals recall of all kratom food drug combinations
• April 2018 – September 2019: At least 30 different recalls due to salmonella contamination
• January 2018: PDX Aromatics recall of kratom products due to salmonella

Statute of Limitations for Kratom Lawsuits

The time limit to file a kratom lawsuit varies by state:

• Most states allow 2-3 years from the date of injury or date of discovery
• Some states, including Kentucky, Louisiana, and Tennessee, have only 1 year
• Wrongful death claims typically have separate timelines
• Product liability claims may have different limitations than personal injury claims

Consulting with an attorney promptly is crucial as these deadlines are strict and missing them can permanently bar you from seeking compensation.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my health problems are related to kratom use?

Medical documentation connecting your symptoms to kratom consumption is essential. Your doctor can help determine if there’s a link between your health issues and kratom use through blood tests and examination of your medical history.

2. What compensation can I receive from a kratom lawsuit?

Compensation typically includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. The exact amount depends on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life.

3. Is kratom legal in the United States?

Kratom’s legality varies by state. It’s federally legal but banned in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Other states have varying restrictions or age limits.

4. How long does a kratom lawsuit take to resolve?

Most cases take 1-3 years to resolve, depending on case complexity, evidence availability, and whether the case settles or goes to trial.

5. Can I join a class action lawsuit for kratom injuries?

Yes, several class action lawsuits are currently pending. An attorney can advise whether joining a class action or filing an individual lawsuit is best for your situation.

6. What if I used kratom but haven’t experienced side effects yet?

If you’ve used kratom but haven’t experienced side effects, you should inform your doctor of your usage history and monitor for symptoms. You only qualify for a lawsuit if you’ve suffered actual injuries.

7. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a kratom lawsuit?

Most attorneys handling kratom lawsuits work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. The lawyer receives a percentage of your settlement or verdict only if you win.

8. Can I file a lawsuit if I purchased kratom online?

Yes, you can file a lawsuit regardless of where you purchased the product. Online retailers and manufacturers can be held liable for injuries caused by their products.

Related Article: Food Poisoning Treatments (Home Remedies)

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for kratom-related injuries. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and this deadline is strictly enforced by courts.

Our experienced attorneys at Schmidt & Clark offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or hourly fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Personalized attention from attorneys with extensive experience in dangerous drug litigation

Don’t let time run out on your right to seek justice and compensation. The manufacturers who profited from these dangerous products should be held accountable for the harm they’ve caused.

[START YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW NOW]