On May 16, 2018, the FDA announced its approval of Lucemyra (lofexidine) as a drug to help patients withdraw from opioids. Like clonidine, lofexidine is an alpha-2 agonist, but it is touted as causing less orthostatic hypotension and therefore being somewhat safer to use.

If you have not yet heard of kratom (usually pronounced kray-tom or krah-tom), consider this an introduction. Kratom preparations are gaining popularity among substance users because of the plant’s opioid-like and stimulant properties.

As a physician, you’re expected to practice evidence-based medicine. But how can anyone keep up with the latest research?