#533: What’s the Tea on Kratom?

#533: What’s the Tea on Kratom?

Author: The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast July 20, 2026 Duration: 1:01:00

Caring for patients using mitragynine-derived substances

Familiarize yourself with the differences in mitragynine-derived compounds. Understand how to identify and manage kratom use disorder and withdrawal from mitragynine-derived compounds. We’re joined by Dr. Jonathan Tanawan (Profile).   

Claim CME for this episode at curbsiders.vcuhealth.org!
By listening to this episode and completing CME, this can be used to count towards the new DEA 8-hr requirement on substance use disorders education.

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Credits

  • Written and Produced, with  Show Notes, Infographic, and Cover Art by Zina Huxley-Reicher, MD 
  • Hosts: Carolyn Chan, MD. MHS and Zina Huxley-Reicher, MD
  • Reviewer: Kento Sonoda, MD, MPH
  • Showrunner: Carolyn Chan, MD, MHS
  • Technical Production: PodPaste
  • Guest: Jonathan Tanawan, MD

Show Segments

  • Intro, disclaimer, guest bio
  • Guest one-liner, Picks of the Week*
  • Case from Kashlak; Definitions
  • Pharmacology of  kratom and other mitragynine-based compounds
  • How to take a mitragynine-specific substance use history
  • Defining a use disorder
  • Withdrawal from kratom 
  • Managing a use disorder with MOUD
  • Legal landscape and regulation 
  • Outro


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Tune in to The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast for a direct line to practical clinical knowledge and the ever-evolving art of patient care. This isn't a dry lecture series; it's a dynamic conversation among practicing physicians who break down complex topics into actionable insights you can use. Each episode delves into the nuances of internal medicine, from managing common chronic conditions to interpreting the latest guidelines and navigating diagnostic dilemmas. You'll hear honest discussions about challenges at the bedside, evidence-based debates, and expert interviews that go beyond textbook summaries to reveal how medicine works in the real world. The podcast serves as both a continuing education resource and a professional companion, offering thoughtful analysis and clinical pearls that resonate whether you're a seasoned hospitalist, a resident in training, or a primary care provider. The focus is consistently on deepening understanding and improving daily practice, making the rounds or the clinic day feel a little less daunting and a lot more informed. Listen for a blend of curiosity, camaraderie, and a genuine commitment to mastering the craft of medicine, all delivered through engaging dialogue that feels like consulting with a trusted colleague.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast
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