Key Takeaways
- Kratom is a plant from Southeast Asia that acts like a stimulant in small doses and like an opioid in larger doses.
- It’s often used to manage pain or help with opioid withdrawal, but it has a high potential for abuse and addiction.
- Kratom can cause withdrawal symptoms similar to opioids, such as muscle aches, insomnia, and anxiety.
- There have been cases of kratom-related overdoses, especially when mixed with other substances.
- The FDA and DEA warn against kratom use due to its unregulated status and health risks.
- Treatment options are available for people struggling with kratom addiction and dependence.
Introduction
Kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, has recently become more popular in the United States. Some people use it to relieve pain, boost energy, or even to manage withdrawal symptoms from opioids. Since it’s natural, many assume it’s safe. But that’s not the case.
Kratom affects the brain in ways similar to opioids, which means it can be addictive. People who use kratom regularly may develop a tolerance, meaning they need more of it to feel the same effects. This can lead to dependence, addiction, and even overdose.
In this article, we’ll explain the risks of kratom use, its potential for abuse, how to recognize withdrawal symptoms, and where to get help if you or someone you know is struggling with kratom addiction.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree that grows in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The leaves of the kratom tree contain compounds called mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which affect the brain’s opioid receptors.
Depending on the dose, kratom can act as:
- A stimulant at low doses increases energy and alertness.
- A sedative at higher doses causes relaxation, pain relief, and even euphoria (a feeling of extreme happiness).
Kratom comes in many forms, including:
- Powder
- Capsules
- Teas
- Extracts
Even though it’s legal in some places, kratom is not regulated by the FDA. This means products can be contaminated, vary in strength, and carry serious health risks.
Why Do People Use Kratom?
People use kratom for many reasons. Some believe it’s a natural alternative to prescription drugs, while others use it for its stimulant or opioid-like effects. Common reasons include:
- Managing chronic pain without prescription opioids
- Reducing symptoms of opioid withdrawal
- Boosting energy and improving mood
- Relieving anxiety or depression
While kratom may offer short-term relief, it can quickly lead to dependence and addiction when used regularly.
The Potential for Abuse and Addiction
Kratom’s ability to activate the brain’s opioid receptors makes it addictive. This means that over time, people may feel like they need kratom just to feel normal.
Here’s how kratom abuse can start:
- Tolerance: The more someone uses kratom, the more they need to get the same effect.
- Dependence: The body becomes used to kratom, and stopping it causes withdrawal symptoms.
- Addiction: People continue using kratom despite it causing problems in their life—at work, at home, or with their health.
Signs of kratom addiction include:
- Taking more significant amounts over time
- Feeling unable to stop using kratom
- Experiencing cravings for kratom
- Using kratom even when it causes harm
Many people who start using kratom to feel better find themselves trapped in a cycle of dependence and addiction.
Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
When someone who’s been using kratom regularly stops, they can experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be mild or severe, depending on how much and long they use it.
Common Withdrawal Symptoms:
- Muscle aches and joint pain
- Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
- Irritability and mood swings
- Nausea and vomiting
- Anxiety and depression
- Runny nose and sweating
- Cravings for kratom
These symptoms are similar to opioid withdrawal and can be hard to manage without medical support. Some people relapse just to stop the discomfort of withdrawal, which makes it harder to quit without help.
Can You Overdose on Kratom?
Yes, it’s possible to overdose on kratom, especially when it’s taken in large amounts or mixed with other substances like alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines.
Symptoms of a Kratom Overdose Include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Confusion or dizziness
- Slowed or difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- In severe cases, death
While kratom-related overdoses are less common than opioid overdoses, they do happen. The risk increases when people mix kratom with other drugs or alcohol.
The FDA and poison control centers have reported a growing number of kratom-related overdoses and deaths, often linked to contaminated products or drug combinations.
The FDA and DEA’s Concerns About Kratom
Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have expressed serious concerns about kratom.
- The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use.
- The DEA lists kratom as a “drug of concern” because of its potential for abuse and addiction.
- Kratom products can be contaminated with dangerous substances like heavy metals, bacteria, or other drugs.
- Because kratom is unregulated, there’s no way to know exactly what’s in the product you’re buying.
Many health experts warn that kratom’s risks far outweigh any potential benefits.
Treatment Options for Kratom Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with kratom addiction, help is available. Just like with other types of substance abuse, professional treatment can make a big difference.
1. Medical Detox
Detox helps people safely manage withdrawal symptoms when they stop using kratom. In a medical setting, doctors can:
- Monitor vital signs
- Provide medications to ease symptoms like anxiety, nausea, and muscle pain
- Reduce the risk of complications like dehydration or seizures
2. Inpatient Rehab
For people with severe addiction, inpatient rehab offers:
- 24/7 medical supervision
- Therapy sessions to address the root causes of addiction
- A safe environment, away from triggers and temptations
3. Outpatient Programs
Outpatient programs are a flexible option for people who:
- Have mild to moderate kratom addiction
- Need to continue working or going to school
- Want support while living at home
4. Therapy and Support Groups
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps change negative thinking patterns.
- Group therapy: Provides support from others going through similar struggles.
- 12-step programs or other support groups for ongoing recovery.
At Virtue Recovery Center, we offer personalized treatment plans designed to help people overcome kratom addiction and build a healthier future.
Conclusion to Substance Use Disorder Symptoms of Kratom Compounds
While kratom may seem like a “natural” solution for pain relief or mood enhancement, it carries serious risks, including addiction, withdrawal, and even overdose. Its effects on the brain are similar to opioids, making it easy to become dependent without realizing it.
If you or someone you love is struggling with kratom addiction, you’re not alone—and help is available. Call Virtue Recovery Center at 866-461-3339 today to speak with a caring professional and start your recovery journey.
FAQs About Kratom Use Disorder
Is kratom addictive?
Yes, kratom can be addictive because it affects the same brain receptors as opioids, leading to tolerance, dependence, and cravings.
Can you overdose on kratom?
Yes. Kratom overdose can cause severe drowsiness, breathing problems, seizures, and even death, especially when mixed with other substances.
What are the signs of kratom withdrawal?
Withdrawal symptoms include muscle aches, insomnia, irritability, anxiety, nausea, and cravings.
Is kratom safe because it’s natural?
No. Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe. Kratom can be addictive, cause withdrawal symptoms, and even lead to overdose.
How can I get help for kratom addiction?
Virtue Recovery Center offers professional detox and addiction treatment programs. Call 866-461-3339 today to get the help you need.
What are the potential risks related to kratom use?
The potential risks associated with the use of kratom include substance use disorders, drug overdose, and adverse health effects. Kratom compounds can lead to addiction in some users, and its effects can be unpredictable.
How can kratom abuse be identified?
Kratom abuse can be identified by symptoms of substance use disorder, such as increasing tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite negative consequences. People who use kratom may also exhibit changes in behavior or lifestyle that suggest dependency.
What are the common effects of kratom?
The effects of kratom vary by dose; lower doses may produce stimulating effects, while higher doses can lead to sedative effects. Users often report pain relief, euphoria, or anxiety reduction, but these can be accompanied by adverse side effects such as nausea and dizziness.
Is there a link between kratom and opioid addiction?
Yes, kratom has been found to have opioid-like effects due to its alkaloids, which can lead to opioid use disorder symptoms in susceptible individuals. Some users may turn to kratom as a means to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms.
What substances can kratom be compared to in terms of addiction potential?
Kratom has been compared to substances like heroin, buprenorphine, and methadone due to its ability to produce similar effects and its addictive potential. However, the safety and effectiveness of kratom are still under investigation.
Why is kratom regulation necessary?
Kratom regulation is important to mitigate risks associated with its use, prevent substance use disorders, and ensure consumer safety. Effective regulation can help control the quality and potency of kratom products available in the market.
What should I know about kratom exposure?
Exposure to kratom can occur in various forms, such as kratom powder or leaves. It’s important to understand that the effects and risks can vary widely among users, and not all kratom products are created equal in terms of strength and purity.
Can kratom use lead to a drug overdose?
Yes, there is a risk of drug overdose associated with kratom, especially when consumed in high doses or in combination with other substances. Users should be cautious and informed about the potential dangers of excessive kratom consumption.
What should I do if I or someone I know is struggling with kratom abuse?
If you or someone you know is struggling with kratom abuse, it is essential to seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist. They can provide support, resources, and treatment options to address substance use disorder symptoms effectively.
Resources
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0091743519303275
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-and-kratom
