Kratom

Kratom is a tropical tree (Mitragyna speciosa) native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, that can produce stimulant and opioid-like effects. While some promote it for pain relief and mood enhancement, the FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use and actively warns against its use due to safety concerns. The FDA has stated that no drug products containing kratom or its main chemical components are legally on the market in the United States.

While not always sold with street names, kratom is sometimes referred to as:

• Herbal speedball
• Kakuam
• Thom
• Ketum

Kratom is typically consumed in several forms. The leaves can be chewed, smoked, or brewed into tea. It is also available in capsule, powder, and extract forms, making it easily accessible online and in some retail stores. The unregulated nature of kratom products means that the potency and purity can vary significantly, posing additional risks to users. Some studies have found that certain kratom sellers add more of the active ingredient than kratom naturally contains.

People use kratom for various reasons, often self-treating conditions without medical supervision. Some common reasons include:

• Pain relief
• Anxiety and depression management
• Opioid withdrawal symptom relief (though this is strongly discouraged due to the risk of kratom dependence)
• Energy boost and improved focus

It’s crucial to understand that while some seek kratom for opioid dependence, avoiding kratom for opioid withdrawal due to addiction risk is significant.

The short-term effects of kratom can vary depending on the dosage and individual physiology. Common effects include

• Increased alertness and energy
• Pain reduction
• Euphoria
• Nausea
• Itching
• Sweating
• Dry mouth

Long-term kratom use can lead to a range of adverse effects, raising serious health concerns. Many ask, does kratom cause liver damage or failure? Yes, the U.S. Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network has identified multiple cases of severe kratom-induced hepatotoxicity. Long-term dangers of kratom use include

• Kratom dependence and addiction
• Liver damage or failure
• Respiratory depression
• Weight loss
• Constipation
• Psychological issues, including anxiety and depression

Kratom use also leads to psychotic symptoms. The DEA reports that several cases of psychosis resulting from kratom use have been documented, where individuals exhibited hallucinations, delusions, and confusion.

The dangers of mixing kratom and other substances are significant and can be life-threatening. Combining kratom with alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines can increase the risk of respiratory depression, overdose, and death. National surveillance data show that fentanyl and fentanyl analogs were the most frequently identified co-occurring substances in kratom-related overdose deaths.

Kratom’s detectability varies. Kratom is detectable in urine for approximately one to nine days, in blood for approximately one to two days, and in hair for up to 90 days. Several factors influence this, including dosage, frequency of use, metabolism, and the type of drug test used.

Recognizing the symptoms of kratom addiction is crucial for early intervention. Signs of kratom addiction include

• Increased tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects
• Kratom withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit
• Compulsive kratom use despite negative consequences
• Spending excessive time and money obtaining and using kratom
• Neglecting responsibilities and relationships due to kratom use

What are the signs of kratom psychological dependence? These include cravings, anxiety, and irritability when not using kratom.

Yes, a kratom overdose is possible, although it is often associated with polysubstance use. Symptoms of a kratom overdose may include

• Respiratory depression
• Seizures
• Coma
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion

Can you die from a kratom overdose? Yes, while kratom-only fatalities are less common, they do occur. A Tampa Bay Times investigation found that 46 people in Florida died from overdosing solely on kratom.

Kratom withdrawal can be intensely unpleasant. Common kratom withdrawal symptoms include

• Muscle aches and pains
• Runny nose and watery eyes
• Anxiety and irritability
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea
• Sweating
• Cravings

Severe kratom withdrawal symptoms timeline varies, but symptoms generally appear within 12 to 48 hours of stopping use and can last from a few days to several weeks. How long does kratom withdrawal last? Research suggests symptoms can persist for more than a week in some individuals, although full withdrawal can take over a month.

Treatment options for kratom dependence typically involve a combination of medical and therapeutic interventions. Kratom detox may be necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Treatment approaches include

• Medical detoxification: Supervised withdrawal management to alleviate symptoms.
• Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapies to address underlying issues and develop coping strategies.
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Medications like buprenorphine may be used to manage withdrawal and cravings.
• Support groups: Peer support to provide encouragement and accountability.

How to quit kratom without severe withdrawal? Medical supervision is highly recommended to manage symptoms safely and effectively. Kratom is a dangerous, unregulated drug. It’s crucial to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with kratom use. The truth about kratom’s addictive properties is becoming increasingly clear, and early intervention is key to preventing long-term harm.

Mountainside also offers a kratom virtual support group that meets weekly.