The University of Florida, a leading institution in kratom research, has launched a new continuing education course for pharmacists titled “Kratom as a Popular Product for Self-Treatment: An Overview for Pharmacists.” Approved by the Florida Board of Pharmacy, this online course aims to equip pharmacists with the knowledge to counsel consumers on the safe use of kratom.
Kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits, but it also poses risks such as herb-drug interactions and complications with preexisting conditions. With millions of new kratom users, pharmacists need to be aware of these risks to provide effective patient care.
Educating Pharmacists on Safe Use and Risk Management
Course Overview: The course provides an in-depth look at kratom’s pharmacology, chemistry, pharmacokinetics, and use patterns. It covers potential drug interactions and current patterns of use, supported by pharmacological evidence. Participants will also learn about the differences between various kratom products, including raw leaf material, hydroalcoholic extracts, and isolated compounds.
Importance of Education: Most clinical practitioners, including pharmacists, lack adequate knowledge about kratom products. The University of Florida’s course aims to fill this gap by educating pharmacists on the nuances of kratom and its safe use, potentially saving lives.
In March 2022, kratom experts published “Understanding Kratom Use: A Guide for Healthcare Providers,” which summarized available kratom science and provided recommendations for healthcare providers. This guide highlighted the need for better education among medical professionals regarding kratom’s risks and benefits.
University of Florida's Leading Role
The University of Florida has been at the forefront of kratom research since 2005, led by Dr. Chris McCurdy, a professor in the Department of Medicinal Chemistry. Over the years, the university has received several federal grants from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to study kratom. Dr. McCurdy and his team have conducted numerous studies to understand kratom’s pharmacology, chemistry, and potential therapeutic benefits and risks.
Pharmacists' Role in Harm Reduction
Pharmacists play a crucial role in harm reduction, particularly in mitigating the negative consequences of substance use. They provide education and counseling on safe medication use, potential drug interactions, and harm reduction strategies. They also distribute naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication, and fentanyl test strips, which help users detect the presence of fentanyl in drugs.
Pharmacists support syringe exchange programs, offering clean syringes to reduce the spread of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis. They approach patients non-judgmentally, fostering a trusting relationship that encourages patients to seek help. Additionally, pharmacists are involved in Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs, where they dispense medications like methadone or buprenorphine to manage opioid dependence. Collaboration with other healthcare providers ensures a comprehensive approach to patient care.