No. Kratom is not explicitly listed as a controlled substance under Irish law, but its legal status remains precarious due to the Psychoactive Substances Act 2010 and the Misuse of Drugs Acts. The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) classifies it as an unapproved novel psychoactive substance, prohibiting sale or supply for human consumption.
Key Regulations for Kratom in Ireland
- Psychoactive Substances Act 2010: Kratom’s psychoactive alkaloids (mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine) fall under this act, banning its sale or supply for recreational use. Offenders face up to 5 years imprisonment or fines.
- Misuse of Drugs Acts: While not scheduled, the HPRA and Revenue Commissioners monitor imports under the Customs (Prohibition of Importation) Order 2021, seizing shipments if deemed for human consumption.
- Marketing Restrictions: The HPRA enforces strict advertising prohibitions under the Medicinal Products (Control of Advertising) Regulations 2007, targeting vendors promoting kratom for therapeutic or recreational purposes.
Recent 2026 compliance shifts indicate potential legislative tightening. The Department of Health’s Emerging Drug Trends Report (2025) highlights kratom’s rising misuse, prompting calls for its inclusion in the Misuse of Drugs Act’s Schedule 1. Until formal scheduling occurs, enforcement remains reactive, focusing on importation and public health risks.