Dear Members of the Virginia Board of Pharmacy,

I am writing to advocate for the recognition of Kratom as a safer alternative to opioids.

My opioid dependency began with prescribed pain medication. As my tolerance increased, doctors prescribed higher doses, eventually reaching unsafe levels. The side effects and overdose risks were overwhelming, and quitting resulted in severe withdrawal symptoms. Discovering Kratom changed everything. This natural herb managed my pain and alleviated withdrawal symptoms without the severe side effects of opioids. It saved my life. And Kratom continues to ease my chronic pain-leaving me opioid free since 2016  

With proper research, Kratom can be a vital tool in harm reduction and recovery, offering a safer alternative to opioids.