Feel Free Drink Sparks Kratom Concerns
# Feel Free’s Fuzzy Line: The Kratom-Based Drink Facing Scrutiny
The brightly colored cans of Feel Free tonic promise a blissful escape – a “vibe lift” without the typical downsides of alcohol. Marketed as a natural choice for winding down,the drink has gained a devoted following,especially online. But beneath the appealing branding lies a controversial ingredient: kratom, a plant with opioid-like properties that’s drawing increasing concern from health officials and sparking a wave of harrowing personal stories.## What is Feel Free and Why is Kratom the Issue?
Feel Free, produced by Botanic Tonics, blends kratom with othre botanicals and flavors. The company positions it as a healthier way to socialize and relax, avoiding the “hangxiety” associated with alcohol. its popularity surged, fueled by social media marketing and word-of-mouth, becoming a staple at festivals and gatherings.
Though, the core ingredient, kratom ( *Mitragyna speciosa*), is at the heart of the controversy. In 2018, then-FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, stated that evidence pointed to the presence of opioid compounds in kratom, that it acts in the brain the same way as opioids do, and that it comes with “potential for abuse.” The FDA has consistently warned about the risks associated with kratom, including potential for addiction, liver damage, and respiratory depression. Currently,kratom is banned in five states,according to a report from the Congressional Research Service.
The concern isn’t just theoretical. A growing number of users are reporting negative experiences.
## The Dark Side of the “Vibe Lift”: User Experiences and Legal Battles
Online, a starkly different picture of Feel Free emerges from the curated marketing.On Reddit, a group dedicated to quitting Feel Free has amassed over 5,000 members. The stories shared within are alarming, detailing struggles with addiction, debilitating withdrawal symptoms, and serious health issues. Users report experiences ranging from persistent skin infections and severe constipation to seizures and the need for rehab.
“These drinks are insane and not only leave you financially ruined but also physically and mentally,” one user wrote in a recent post, describing a complete disruption of bodily functions. Others detail the financial strain of a daily habit that can easily cost $10-$20 per can.
These concerns culminated in a 2023 class action lawsuit against botanic Tonics, alleging the company failed to adequately warn consumers about the dangers of kratom. Botanic Tonics agreed to pay $8.75 million to settle the suit. While the company didn’t admit wrongdoing, it has as updated its product labels to include a warning that the drink *may* be habit-forming and advises individuals with a history of substance abuse to avoid it. This is a significant shift, acknowledging the potential for dependence that the company previously downplayed.
## FDA Action and Feel Free’s Response
The FDA continues to investigate kratom and its potential health risks.In July, the agency announced it is indeed recommending scheduling action to control products containing 7-OH,a byproduct of the kratom plant linked to a significant number of overdose cases.
Feel Free, though, maintains that its Classic tonic uses only natural leaf kratom and thus isn’t affected by the FDA’s proposed action.The company states on its website that “