JACC Case Rep. 2026 Feb 26:107173. doi: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2026.107173. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Brugada syndrome is an inherited cardiac channelopathy causing malignant ventricular arrhythmias and sudden death in structurally normal hearts, which may be unmasked by medications or recreational substances in susceptible individuals.
CASE SUMMARY: A 28-year-old man collapsed after smoking a hand-rolled cigarette later confirmed to contain Mitragyna speciosa (kratom). Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation and 2 automated external defibrillator shocks restored circulation within 5 minutes. Electrocardiography demonstrated a type 1 Brugada pattern. He achieved neurologic recovery after intensive care. Cardiac imaging showed no structural abnormalities, and the family history revealed sudden death in an identical twin. Brugada syndrome unmasked by kratom exposure was diagnosed, and referral was made for subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation and genetic testing.
DISCUSSION: Kratom possesses opioid activity and ion channel-modulating properties that may precipitate malignant arrhythmias.
TAKE-HOME MESSAGES: Kratom is a psychoactive substance with potential arrhythmogenic effects. Increased awareness of its cardiovascular risks is important for both clinicians and public health.
PMID:41746245 | DOI:10.1016/j.jaccas.2026.107173