Herbal product Kamini may be causing opioid dependence in Australia, doctors warn

A commentary published in the September Drug & Alcohol Review journal described how 12 patients in Queensland and 12 patients in Victoria presented to addiction clinics after taking Kamini, also referred to as Kamini Vidrawan Ras, a herbal medicine that is usually illegally imported from India.

Kamini contains opioids such as codeine and morphine in unknown quantities, and despite these substances having a sedative effect, it is often promoted as a stimulant. The Therapeutic Goods Administration has banned imports of Kamini but it can still be bought in some grocery stores and online.

Tremonti said many of those seeking help reported working for ride-share companies and used the substance to work long hours and to get through shift work. He said a significant number of those seeking help were from India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, and that it was important people who were concerned about taking Kamini felt comfortable seeking medical care.

Dr Thileepan Naren, an addiction medicine registrar with Western Health in Victoria, has treated a number of patients in Melbourne experiencing opioid dependence after using Kamini.

Naren said some patients were aware Kamini contained opioids, and some were not, and that bottles sell for about $100 for 100 tablets. While he is not aware of any overdoses in Australia from the substance, he said little is known about use and effects, and more research is needed.