Panhandle Health District Warns Against Kratom Use

The health district recommends avoiding all kratom products and reporting adverse side effects.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Panhandle Health District in Idaho has issued a warning about the dangers of kratom, an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. The health district says kratom is addictive, has a risk of overdose, and can lead to adverse side effects like seizures, liver and kidney toxicity, and even death. They are advising people to avoid all kratom products and report any adverse reactions.

Why it matters

Kratom is becoming an increasingly prevalent issue in Northern Idaho and across the nation, with some cities like Spokane considering banning sales of the supplement. The health district wants to raise awareness about the potential dangers of kratom, especially as it is currently unregulated by the FDA and can be purchased over-the-counter at gas stations and convenience stores.

The details

Kratom can produce a mild stimulant effect at low doses, while higher doses have sedative properties similar to opioids. The two main active components, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), can lead to addiction and psychosis. Concentrated kratom products like liquids, powders, and pills may contain unsafe levels of these alkaloids and cause serious side effects.

  • The Panhandle Health District issued the warning on Monday, February 23, 2026.

The players

Panhandle Health District

The public health department serving the five northernmost counties of Idaho.

Gregory Pennock, MD

The Medical Director of the Panhandle Health District.

Kootenai County Coroner

The coroner's office that has reported deaths associated with kratom use in Northern Idaho.

Washington State Legislature

The state government body that is considering taxing or increasing the age limit for the sale of kratom.

City of Spokane

A Washington city that is considering banning the sale of kratom products.

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What they’re saying

“Kratom, and in particular 7-OH, appears to be a growing problem in Northern Idaho and the rest of the nation. Deaths associated with kratom use have occurred in Northern Idaho per my communications with the Kootenai County Coroner.”

— Gregory Pennock, MD, Medical Director, Panhandle Health District (krem.com)

What’s next

The Washington state legislature is considering taxing or increasing the age limit for the sale of kratom, while the city of Spokane is weighing a ban on kratom products.

The takeaway

This warning from the Panhandle Health District highlights the growing concerns around the use of kratom, an unregulated supplement that can be dangerously addictive and lead to serious health consequences. As more communities grapple with the risks of kratom, it underscores the need for greater oversight and education about the potential dangers of this herbal product.