The tragic death of 27-year-old Wyatt Wheeler due to a kratom overdose has shed light on the dangers associated with the supplement. Wyatt had only been using kratom for six weeks when he passed away in 2022. His mother, Patti Wheeler, shared the heartbreaking story with PEOPLE, emphasizing the need for awareness about the addictive nature of kratom. This incident inspired Patti to produce the documentary “Kratom: Side Effects May Include,” delving into the industry, the supplement itself, and the lives impacted by it.
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According to Patti, Wyatt turned to kratom as an alternative to alcohol while studying at the Neely School of Business in Texas. Initially unaware of its addictive properties, Wyatt’s family was shocked when he suffered a seizure and tragically lost his life. The Wheeler family later discovered that Wyatt had been using kratom for a very short period before the fatal overdose. Kratom, derived from a tree in South Asia, is known for its stimulant effects in low doses and sedative properties in high doses. However, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency has raised concerns about its addictive potential.
The availability of kratom in gas stations, smoke shops, and convenience stores has raised further alarm about its widespread usage. The U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary is taking steps to ban a concentrated synthetic version of kratom known as 7-OH. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has highlighted the risks associated with kratom, citing side effects such as nausea, sweating, dry mouth, and even hallucinations. These adverse effects underscore the need for better regulation and awareness surrounding kratom consumption.
Patti Wheeler’s efforts to raise awareness about kratom’s dangers culminated in the documentary “Kratom: Side Effects May Include,” a project aimed at educating the public about the risks associated with the supplement. The documentary explores personal stories like Wyatt’s, shedding light on the industry practices and regulatory loopholes that allow kratom to remain largely unregulated. Despite facing cyber threats from kratom supporters opposing a ban, Patti remains resolute in her mission to prevent further tragedies.
In the wake of Wyatt’s untimely death, Patti hopes that his story will serve as a cautionary tale, prompting others to be vigilant about the substances they consume. She emphasises the importance of educating people about the dangers of kratom and advocating for stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. Patti’s dedication to saving lives and honoring Wyatt’s memory through advocacy serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of substance misuse on individuals and families.
The documentary “Kratom: Side Effects May Include” offers a comprehensive exploration of the kratom industry and its effects on those who use it. By sharing personal accounts and expert insights, the film aims to spark dialogue and promote informed decision-making regarding kratom consumption. Patti’s resilience in the face of adversity underscores the urgency of addressing the issues surrounding kratom and advocating for greater awareness and regulation to protect public health.