Kratom is a substance that has grown in popularity over the last decade, often marketed as a dietary or herbal supplement. The plant-based drug has mild mind-altering effects such as euphoria, relaxation, and pain relief that have been misleadingly sold as a “healthy” alternative to opioids.
Although not as potent or addictive as classic opioids such as heroin or fentanyl, kratom has several long-term health effects that can be dangerous due to little regulation and a lack of awareness around the drug.
Read on to understand the risks of kratom abuse and how to get help if you or someone you love is struggling with the effects of kratom.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, and its leaves contain compounds that can produce stimulant effects (increased energy, focus) at low doses, or sedative, euphoric, opioid-like effects at higher doses. Traditionally, kratom leaves have been chewed, smoked, or brewed in tea in countries such as Thailand and Malaysia. In the US, kratom is sold as an herbal supplement in the form of powder, capsules, or extracts (oil or tea).
Many use kratom as a way to alleviate chronic pain (e.g., neck or back pain), anxiety, and depression. It is often perceived as “safe” because it is sold over the counter in drug stores, tobacco shops, and gas stations in 44 US states [1]. However, the evidence does not quite support this.
Is Kratom Safe and Legal?
Kratom is not considered medically safe. It is not FDA-approved, and there is not enough evidence to confirm its effectiveness in treating medical conditions.
Kratom can cause uncomfortable, short-term effects such as nausea or dizziness. It can also increase the risk of issues such as addiction, seizures, and liver toxicity, especially when combined with other substances such as alcohol or benzodiazepines.
Some kratom products have been found to contain harmful toxins, such as heavy metals or bacteria, due to the lack of regulation surrounding the drug. Although kratom is federally legal, it is banned or restricted in certain states or localities, including Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin [1].
The Effects of Kratom
Long-term kratom use carries several risks, particularly with high doses or regular use. Medical supervision is advised for anyone using kratom regularly, and it is not a replacement for medication.
Short-Term Effects of Kratom
Kratom has several short-term effects that can vary depending on the dose and individual factors such as height, weight, metabolism, and whether other drugs are present.
Stimulant-Like Effects (Low Dose: 1 to 5 g):
- Increased energy and ability to focus
- Increased social ability
- Decreased appetite
- Mild euphoria
- Heightened libido
Opioid-Like Effects (High Dose: 5 to 15 g)
- Pain relief
- Sedation or drowsiness
- Calm, dreamlike state
- Euphoria
- Reduced anxiety and pain
- Cough suppression
Common Side Effects (All Doses)
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Loss of appetite
- Increased urination
Long-Term Effects of Kratom
Kratom can cause several long-term consequences to one’s physical and mental health. These include:
- Chronic insomnia
- Anorexia or significant weight loss
- Hair loss
- Skin darkening
- Urinary changes such as increased frequency or urgency
- Liver toxicity and elevated liver enzymes
- Tremors and seizures
- Psychosis and hallucinations
Kratom and The Risk of Addiction
Kratom contains two active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These partly activate the same opioid receptors in the brain as drugs such as fentanyl or morphine. This activation can increase the risk of physical dependence for several reasons, including [2]:
- Euphoria and pain relief similar to opioids can reinforce behavior, especially for those with chronic pain or underlying mental health problems such as depression or anxiety.
- Stimulation, increased energy, and better focus at lower doses can also reinforce addictive behavior, with many using kratom to self-medicate underlying problems of depression or ADHD.
- Increased tolerance and dependence build with regular use as the brain adapts to the presence of kratom compounds.
- Distressing withdrawal symptoms such as muscle aches, insomnia, and mood swings can make it difficult to quit without professional intervention.
Is Kratom Considered an Actual Opioid?
Kratom is not a typical opioid, such as oxycodone, Vicodin, morphine, or fentanyl, but it acts as an “atypical opioid”. Its primary alkaloids bind to opioid receptors, but differently than traditional opioids. Although it is less potent, with a different biological structure than prescription opioids, its action at opioid receptors is what gives users the pain-relieving effects and risk of addiction.
Can You Overdose and Die from Kratom?
Overdose and death from pure kratom is possible, but not common. Cultures in Southeast Asia have used kratom traditionally for centuries with no related major public health problems. Most kratom-related deaths involve polydrug use, such as mixing kratom with other opioids or benzodiazepines. Some recreational kratom products sold on the street contain opioids such as 0-desmethyltramadol, the active metabolite of tramadol, an opioid painkiller, which has also been linked to increased kratom-related deaths [1].
Long-Term Treatment Options for Kratom Addiction
Kratom treatment is approached similarly as other substances, focusing on safe medical detox, addressing underlying mental health factors that drive addiction, and integrated wellness components to support positive well-being.
Detox
The first essential step to safely detox from kratom and manage withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and muscle aches is to enroll in a medically supervised detox program. This ensures comfort and safety during the process of eliminating kratom from the body.
Therapy
A combination of behavioral therapies to address underlying mental health issues is essential for long-term recovery from kratom abuse. Many begin abusing kratom to manage chronic physical or emotional pain, and therapy can challenge these negative thought cycles and cognitive distortions to reduce addictive tendencies. Some of the therapies that can support recovery from kratom addiction include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) challenges cognitive distortions, helps patients build coping skills, and sets long-term goals.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) addresses negative and complex emotions, focusing on skills such as distress tolerance, emotional regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal relationships.
- Trauma-informed therapies follow the principles of trauma-sensitive care, such as safety, choice, and collaboration, to empower patients and create a safe, therapeutic space for emotional processing.
- Group therapy provides a space for patients in recovery to connect with others, fostering shared feelings of mutual understanding.
Integrated Wellness
Holistic components such as yoga, massage therapy, meditation, art, music, dance, and physical fitness classes can support overall well-being and aid in one’s healing journey from substance abuse. Integrated wellness activities promote relaxation, emotional resilience, and reduce chronic stress.
Detox and Residential Treatment for Kratom Abuse in Michigan
Rushton Recovery understands how challenging recovering from substance abuse is and that it requires a comprehensive approach to care. Our supervised medical detox and holistic residential treatment center in Michigan offers a healing space to embark on your journey toward a kratom-free life.
We offer evidence-based therapies designed to evolve with your individual needs and address the root of kratom abuse. Let our team help you heal, repair relationships, and equip you with the skills to achieve long-term recovery.
Reach out to our Admissions team now.
Sources
[1] FDA and Kratom. 2024. US Food and Drug Administration.
[2] Kratom. 2022. Mayo Clinic.
