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Elkton Police Warn Families About Kratom-Infused Canned Drinks
Russ Survance
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 05:14:01 EST
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The Elkton Police Department is alerting parents to the growing availability of Mitra9 canned kratom beverages in local stores and online.
The brightly colored drinks, marketed as plant-based "kava and kratom" products, resemble energy drinks and are sold at gas stations, convenience stores, vape shops and through online retailers. Police say some cans clearly list "kratom extract" or "mitragynine," while others reference "7-hydroxymitragynine" (7-OH), a potent compound found in kratom.
Officials caution that although the drinks may look similar to common energy beverages, they contain psychoactive compounds that act on brain receptors in ways comparable to opioids. Reported side effects include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, increased heart rate and impaired judgment. Repeated use can lead to dependence, and mixing kratom with alcohol can increase the risk of respiratory depression.
Because kratom products are not regulated like FDA-approved medications, potency and ingredients may vary, police said.
Parents are encouraged to talk with students about unfamiliar drinks and supplements, monitor for changes in mood or behavior, and seek emergency help if someone is unresponsive or having difficulty breathing. Officials said the goal of the advisory is prevention and awareness.
