Kratom: Symptoms, Addiction and Treatment

Kratom, commonly referred to as an herbal substance derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia, is recognized for its ability to produce opioid- and stimulant-like effects.

Because kratom is legal, the drug doesn’t have the stigma of other hallucinogens.

Kratom’s legal status also makes it a drug that is popular with younger adults.

The leaves and stems are dried and either chewed or brewed into a tea-like substance. Depending upon the dosage, the sensations of using this drug can produce a mild stimulant, while larger doses can produce opioid-like effects in users.

Kratom is usually bought in leaf form. In the US, however, the drug is more likely to be purchased as a capsule filled with a powdered extract of the leafy material, or in a chopped-up form that is to be used for tea or smoking.

In nearly every use of kratom, the drug is orally ingested.

Once the drug is smoked or drank, the effects occur in five to ten minutes, and can last between two and five hours. Higher doses can last even longer periods of time.

While kratom and kratom-based products are currently legal and accessible in many areas, U.S. and international agencies continue to scrutinize the emerging evidence to guide policy decisions according to the 2021 United Nations, Commission on Narcotic Drugs report. Despite its legal status in the US, it is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for any medical use; however, people often use kratom to manage drug withdrawal symptoms, especially related to opioids, pain, fatigue, and mental health problems according to Dr Joseph J Palamar in 2021. Kratom is primarily consumed in leaf, capsule, or tea form, with effects manifesting within minutes and potentially lasting several hours.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse supports research to evaluate kratom’s potential medicinal uses and its overall health and safety effects, as serious but rare effects such as psychiatric, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and respiratory problems have been reported. Compared to other drugs, deaths linked to kratom are very rare and nearly always involve other substances or contaminants.

What is Kratom Addiction?

Kratom addiction is a type of substance use disorder characterized by the compulsive use of the kratom plant, which is native to Southeast Asia and known for its psychoactive properties. This addiction involves a physical and psychological dependence on kratom, leading to cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and a detrimental impact on the individual’s daily life and health.

What Are The Symptoms of Kratom Addiction?

The Symptoms of Kratom Addiction include physical, psychological, and behavioral signs that indicate a developing dependency. The most significant kratom addiction symptoms are:

• Intense cravings and persistent urges to use kratom
• Increased tolerance requiring larger doses for desired effects
• Physical withdrawal symptoms when usage stops
• Loss of control over usage despite wanting to quit
• Neglecting responsibilities and obligations
• Relationship problems due to kratom use
• Spending excessive time and money obtaining kratom
• Continuing use despite physical or psychological harm
• Using kratom to cope with stress and emotional issues
• Failed attempts to quit or cut back

What Are the Side Effects of Kratom?

The side effects of kratom include a range of symptoms from mild to severe. Common effects include nausea, constipation and dizziness. More serious complications can involve seizures, cardiovascular issues, liver problems, and respiratory depression. Long-term use may lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Users may also experience psychological effects such as confusion, hallucinations, and mood changes.

See the katom side effects list below:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Itching
• Sweating
• Muscle tremors

Serious Side Effects:

• Seizures
• Confusion
• High blood pressure
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
• Heart-related complications
• Slow breathing (respiratory depression)
• Liver damage
• Hallucinations
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Appetite changes
• Weight loss
• Withdrawal symptoms with long-term use

“Kratom, , can cause symptoms similar to stimulants and opiods simultaneously” explains Dr. Michael Olla, a Psychiatrist and Medical Director at Valley Spring Recovery Center. “We’ve also seen cases where individuals report a distorted sense of gravity, leading them to fall to the ground.” These reactions can be quite intense, causing users to panic or ‘freak out’ as they lose control over their bodily movements.”

How Does Kratom Affect Long-Term Health?

Kratom affects long-term health in several significant ways:

• Liver problems, including potential organ damage and enzyme abnormalities
• Brain function changes, such as cognitive impairment and mood alterations
• Hormone disruption, affecting endocrine system balance
• Kidney issues, including risk of injury and reduced function
• Heart complications, such as irregular rhythms and blood pressure changes
• Digestive problems, including chronic constipation and nausea
• Risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms

Regular kratom use, especially at higher doses, increases these health risks. The severity and specific effects depend on individual factors, consumption patterns, and duration of use.

How Does Kratom Affect Mental Health?

Kratom affects mental health in multiple distinct ways:

Mood Changes

• Low doses can increase sociability and energy
• Higher doses may cause sedation and drowsiness

Cognitive Function

• Enhanced alertness at small amounts
• Possible mental fog with larger doses
• Changes in concentration and focus

Emotional Responses

• Temporary mood elevation
• Potential anxiety or irritability
• Fluctuating emotional stability

Behavioral Impact:

• Increased social interaction at low doses
• Reduced activity at higher doses
• Changes in sleep patterns

Individual responses to kratom vary significantly based on dosage, frequency of use, and personal sensitivity. While some users report improved mental well-being, others may experience adverse psychological effects. Regular monitoring of mental health is important for kratom users.

What are the risks and safety concerns associated with kratom use?

Kratom use is associated with numerous risks and safety concerns that require careful consideration. While it may have therapeutic potential, this herbal substance poses significant safety issues due to its unregulated availability for public use without prescription oversight. The risks of kratom use are amplified by inconsistent processing methods and the presence of uncontrolled compounds in commercial products. Users frequently report safety concerns ranging from mild effects like nausea and constipation to severe complications including seizures, liver damage, and addiction potential. The safety risks increase when kratom interacts with other substances, creating particular dangers for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those on medication regimens.

The safety profile of kratom remains a critical concern, particularly due to its complex and often unpredictable effects on the body. These safety considerations necessitate careful evaluation and stronger regulatory frameworks. Both potential users and healthcare providers must remain vigilant about the substance’s documented risks and current regulatory status to make informed decisions about its use.

What Are The Treatment Options For Kratom Abuse?

Treatment options for kratom abuse include medical detoxification, behavioral therapies, support groups, residential and outpatient programs, aftercare planning, and education on lifestyle changes.

Medical detoxification manages severe withdrawal symptoms with medications, while behavioral therapies like CBT address triggers and cravings. Support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), residential and outpatient programs, and comprehensive aftercare planning, including ongoing therapy and lifestyle education, are crucial for long-term recovery.

Here are the treatment optiosn for kratom abuse below:

• Detoxification and Medical Intervention: Medical detox is essential for managing withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe. Professionals may use medications to ease symptoms and ensure a safer tapering process.
• Behavioral Therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify triggers, manage cravings, and change drug-related behaviors. Therapy can be conducted individually or in groups.
• Support Groups and Peer Support: Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide community support, helping individuals share experiences and maintain motivation for sobriety.
• Residential Treatment Programs: Long-term residential care offers 24-hour support and structured programs to address physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction.
• Outpatient Treatment Programs: As an alternative to residential treatment, outpatient programs provide flexibility for those with personal responsibilities, requiring participation in scheduled treatment sessions.
• Aftercare Planning: A comprehensive aftercare plan, including ongoing therapy, regular participation in support groups, and possibly a sober living environment to help transition back into everyday life, is crucial for preventing relapse after treatment.
• Education and Lifestyle Changes: Educating individuals about kratom and promoting a healthy lifestyle can support recovery and help rebuild fulfilling lives.

What Is The Length Of Kratom Treatment?

The length of kratom treatment varies between a few days to several months, depending on the unique nature of each addiction. Depending on the degree of your kratom use, treatment could last anywhere from a few days to months, or possibly longer. Also keep in mind that kratom treatment doesn’t just involve detox and a week or two of recovery. To increase the likelihood of continued sobriety, your treatment will also involve extended counseling sessions. In addition to helping you quit using kratom, your rehab will help give you the emotional, mental, and physical strength to stay sober in the face of temptation.

How Can Kratom Rehab Help?

Kratom rehab helps by providing professional support and comprehensive treatment programs essential for overcoming kratom addiction. Through structured rehabilitation, you receive both medical supervision and psychological support to safely detox and recover. The rehab process helps identify personal triggers for kratom use and develops coping strategies to prevent relapse. With the guidance of addiction specialists and peer support groups, you learn to maintain long-term sobriety and rebuild a healthy lifestyle. Though the recovery journey can be challenging, rehabilitation centers offer both inpatient and outpatient programs tailored to your specific needs, making it possible to achieve lasting freedom from kratom dependence.

How Do Kratom Compounds Work in The Brain?

Kratom’s primary compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to and activate opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects similar to opioids, such as pain relief and euphoria, though generally less intense. Unlike traditional opioids, kratom compounds typically cause fewer dangerous side effects, such as respiratory depression, which is a leading cause of overdose deaths among opioid users. Research published by NIDA in 2022 titled “Kratom” indicates that kratom also interacts with other neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin and dopamine receptors. This interaction may explain its use by some individuals as a self-treatment for depression and anxiety.

Can kratom replace antidepressants?

Kratom cannot replace antidepressants. While it is sometimes used by individuals to alleviate symptoms of depression due to its stimulant and sedative properties, derived from the evergreen tree, Mitragyna speciosa, there is limited scientific evidence supporting kratom’s effectiveness as an antidepressant. Kratom can also pose severe risks, including dependence and severe withdrawal symptoms. Due to these factors and the lack of regulatory approval, kratom should not be considered a replacement for traditional antidepressants without professional medical advice.

Does Kratom Increase Dopamine Levels?

Kratom impacts dopamine functioning in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure systems. Kratom contains compounds that may enhance or modify dopamine pathways; however, it is unclear whether this effect significantly boosts dopamine levels similar to traditional drugs of abuse. Users should be cautious, as the alteration of dopamine can lead to dependency and other neurological effects.

How Does Kratom Interact with Prescription Medications?

Kratom can interact with prescription medications in potentially harmful ways. It acts on the body’s opioid receptors, which can interfere with pain medications and opioid addiction treatments. Combining kratom with central nervous system drugs, such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, or anticonvulsants, increases the risk of side effects like sedation or respiratory depression. Individuals should consult healthcare providers to discuss potential drug interactions.

Can kratom cause withdrawal symptoms similar to opioids?

Yes, regular kratom use can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms similar to those associated with opioid addiction and withdrawal. These symptoms may include nausea, sweating, muscle aches, irritability, emotional changes, and cravings for the drug. The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the length and intensity of kratom use. Medical supervision is often recommended for individuals trying to quit kratom, especially those who have used it heavily.

Is it legal to drive while under the influence of kratom?

Driving under the influence of kratom is generally considered illegal, as it can impair motor skills, reaction time, and judgment. Although kratom is not regulated like other narcotics in many areas, driving while impaired by any substance, including kratom, could lead to DUI charges. The effects of kratom on driving ability vary by dosage and individual response, so it is safest to avoid driving after consuming kratom.

Can kratom be detected in drug tests?

Kratom cannot be detected in standard drug tests, but there are specialized tests that can identify kratom compounds like mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine. These specific tests are not commonly used but may be employed in certain contexts where kratom use is suspected. The detectability of kratom in these tests can depend on the dosage, frequency of use, and the time elapsed since the last use.