Kratom & Regulations

The opioid use epidemic remains a significant public health challenge in the United States. The DEA MATE Act requires clinicians to be knowledgeable in the prescribing and management of opioid use disorder (OUD), yet many treating teams continue to face challenges balancing chronic pain management, preventing opioid over‑prescription, and addressing illicit opioid use. This educational activity addresses gaps in recognizing OUD and withdrawal, applying person‑first language, and accessing evidence‑based treatments, including pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic approaches. Learners will also gain skills to identify barriers to medication access and appropriately refer patients for outpatient care, supporting the effective initiation and maintenance of OUD treatment.

Target Audience

Physicians and advanced-practice providers in psychiatry, emergency medicine, family medicine, internal medicine, and obstetrics and gynecology and the community.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of the session, the participants should be able to:

  • Review the pharmacological profile of kratom, its active compounds, and its common formulations.
  • Describe the mechanisms of action of kratom’s central components, including opioid receptor activity, and their implications for mental health and addiction.
  • Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of regulating kratom as a scheduled substance.

Course summary

Available credit: 
  • 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™
  • 0.50 Pain Management
  • 0.50 Participation
  • 0.50 Social Work
Course opens: 
04/01/2026
Course expires: 
04/30/2028
Rating: 
0
Baylor College of Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
Baylor College of Medicine designates this enduring activity for a maximum of 0.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
 
This activity has been designated by Baylor College of Medicine for 0.5 credit of education in pain management and the prescription of opioids.

Social Work
Baylor College of Medicine, Division of Continuing Professional Development (License Number 7270) is an approved continuing education provider for Social Workers through the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners. This live activity has been approved for 0.50 continuing education units.

Available Credit

  • 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™
  • 0.50 Pain Management
  • 0.50 Participation
  • 0.50 Social Work
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