LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — A plant-based substance sold in gas stations and tobacco shops across Kentucky is sparking debate among addiction specialists about whether it's a helpful alternative or a dangerous gateway to dependency.

Kratom, derived from a plant native to Southeast Asia, is readily available despite lacking FDA approval and operating in a legal gray area at the federal level.

"How bad do you really wanna feel a moment of pleasure for a lifetime of pain?" said Christopher Cox, director of Changed Lives Counseling Center.

Cox said kratom mimics opioids by hitting the same brain receptors and creating similar addictive patterns.

"You can get it in the back door through these gas stations and everything, you know. So it's a free… open, free, kids can get ahold of it. Just lik

See Full Page