What is kratom and how is it related to the deaths of 2 Ole Miss students at University of Mississippi? Authorities investigate 'possible overdose'

Two University of Mississippi students were found dead on the Ole Miss Campus just after 1:30 p.m. Monday, police said. An investigation is underway into the death of Ole Miss students' death as authorities said packaged kratom was found during the separate search and investigations. “We do not know if it’s connected to either one of these deaths, but we want to warn the public that this could be a possibility in trying to get anyone else involved,” Lafayette County Sheriff Joe East said.

As of now, there is no confirmation that the death of Ole Miss students were linked to packaged kratom or overuse of drugs. The Lafayette County Sheriff's Office issued a statement saying that packaged kratom sold from a retail store was found during both investigations, adding that there is no confirmed information indicating that kratom or any other substance was a contributing factor in either death.

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According to WMC Action 5 News, an NBC Station in Memphis, public safety officials were dispatched to Stewart Hall on the Ole Miss Campus after reports of a "possible overdose" emerged. In that instance, the person was unresponsive and given CPR.

According to CNN, two students were found dead at their homes on and off the campus in Oxford, and autopsies are being scheduled. Authorities have not released their names, ages or genders.

Ole Miss reacts on deaths of Mississippi students

Ole Miss police are working with state and local law enforcement to investigate, and at this time, it remains unclear how the students died.

The deaths come a few days after LSU and Ole Miss played each other Saturday in Oxford.

Ole Miss issued a statement on the deaths of its students: “The University is heartbroken by the recent loss of two students and extends our condolences to their families, friends and loved ones during this difficult time.

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"We are aware that considerable unverified information is circulating on social media and in the community regarding these recent student deaths. The Coroner’s Office has confirmed two student deaths, and University Police are not aware of any additional student deaths. University Police remain in contact with local and state law enforcement, and the causes of the two deaths are still under investigation.

"We encourage our community not to speculate about the circumstances or repeat information that has not been officially confirmed. We appreciate your understanding and support for our campus community during this difficult time."

What is kratom?

Kratom comes from a tree native to southeast Asia and can have both stimulant and opioid effects, NewsNation said in a report. Kratom is not illegal in Mississippi. However, Oxford and some other cities have banned the sale of kratom-related products, according to The Associated Press.

In some states, kratom can be sold to people of all ages. It is available at gas stations, smoke shops, convenience stores, grocery stores and health food stores. Kratom is sold in different forms, including powders, loose-leaf teas, capsules, tablets and concentrates.

Kratom is sold in many forms, including pills, teas, and tonics and can be used as a stimulant and also as a sedative. Public health officials across the country have voiced concerns about Kratom being used in highly concentrated ways.

According to Yale Medicine, Kratom is not considered an opioid because it is not derived from the opium poppy. However, Kratom can still lead to physical opioid dependence and opioid addiction. Yes, overdoses can happen while taking Kratom, but it is rare, according to the Mayo Clinic.