Kratom, a plant used for centuries in Southeast Asia for relaxation as well as alertness, has become a growing health concern in the US. It’s gaining popularity across the nation, being consumed in larger doses, having effects similar to opioids or muscle relaxers. With its increasing use and potential risks, it’s essential to understand what kratom is and how it affects the body.
Why Is Kratom So Popular?
Its potential opioid-like effects, as well as its use as an alternative to prescription opioids, have gained attention amidst the opioid epidemic. Kratom sales are estimated at around $1.5 billion dollars annually, attracting an estimated 15 million users yearly. Although loosely regulated by the FDA, states are starting to impose restrictions as more cases of overdose are being reported. Data indicates many users are consuming Kratom for its euphoric effects and also taking Kratom instead of prescription opioids.
Kratom misuse is an emerging trend, partially due to the wide availability of kratom sold in head shops or on the internet. With effects ranging from alertness, relaxation, euphoria, as well as pain relief, to name a few, users are frequently risking dependence and kratom addiction, similar to those who misuse opioids.
There’s speculation that a majority of Kratom use is to mitigate opioid withdrawal symptoms, self-treat heroin/morphine/fentanyl dependence, or for pain relief in patients with chronic pain who feel stigmatized when taking prescription pain medications.
What Is Kratom? Origins and Uses
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a leafy plant indigenous to Southeast Asia. It is a relative of the coffee plant in the Rubiaceae family. Unlike coffee, where the berry is harvested, the leaves of the kratom plant are used. Traditionally, locals have chewed kratom leaves or brewed kratom tea to boost alertness and endurance or for relaxation.
Types of Kratom Strains
Kratom leaves come in three main strains, each producing different effects:
- Red Strain: Typically more sedating, often used for relaxation and pain relief.
- Green Strain: Balanced effects, providing a mix of stimulation and relaxation.
- White Strain: More stimulating, used for increased alertness and energy.
How Kratom Works
The chemicals in kratom leaves are broken down into alkaloids in the body. The complexity of kratom’s effects is due to its many alkaloids, which affect different parts of the brain and act on opioid receptors as well.
The main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, have psychoactive effects on the brain. However, the interactions among these and other alkaloids are not fully understood, complicating the understanding of how kratom works.
Common Uses of Kratom
In the United States, kratom is typically sold as a powder, usually in capsule form, or as a concentrated liquid extract.
It has a few common uses:
- Self-treat pain
- Manage mood disorders
- Alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms
While kratom’s various strains and their effects may seem appealing, it is crucial to be aware of the potential side effects that can arise from its use.
What Are the Side Effects of Kratom?
Like any substance, kratom use can lead to side effects, which vary based on dosage and frequency of use.
Here are the various side effects of kratom:
Mild Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Agitation/Irritability
- Rapid heartbeat
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
Severe Side Effects with Regular Use:
- Weight loss
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Sweating and fever
- Tremors and seizures
Most Severe Side Effects:
- Difficulty breathing
- Liver damage
- Seizures
Regular kratom users can develop dependence and addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can begin 12 hours after the last use and last up to five days, with post-acute symptoms affecting some for weeks, depending on the dose and length of time of use.
These feelings include cravings and withdrawal symptoms similar to those experienced with opioid withdrawal.
Kratom vs. Suboxone: Can Kratom Be an Alternative to Suboxone (Buprenorphine)?
No, kratom cannot be considered a safe or effective alternative to Suboxone (buprenorphine).
While kratom interacts with opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body, acting as a partial opioid agonist similar to buprenorphine, it has not been proven safe or effective for treating addiction.
Conversely, at QuickMD, our physicians are treating kratom misuse with MOUD (Medications for Opioid Use Disorder), such as treatment with Suboxone.
Understanding the side effects of kratom is essential, especially when considering its potential role as an alternative to established treatments like Suboxone (Buprenorphine).
Is Kratom Dangerous?
The short answer is yes, kratom can be dangerous. It’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with its use.
We’ve seen a significant increase in patients misusing kratom, especially over the past year. Kratom’s safety is compromised by inconsistent dosing and potential contamination. Some batches have been found to contain harmful substances which pose serious health risks.
Here’s a breakdown of these dangers:
Potential Contaminants Found in Kratom:
- Hydrocodone
- Morphine
- Heavy metals
- Salmonella
- Krypton (a synthetic opioid)
Kratom laced with krypton has been linked to at least nine deaths. The lack of regulation is a significant danger, compounded by insufficient labeling on these products.
Fortunately, cases like these have prompted more states to implement regulations on the production and sale of kratom products.
Kratom Overdose Statistics:
- From July 2016 to December 2017, at least 152 of the 27,338 overdose deaths in the U.S. involved kratom.
- In seven cases, kratom was the only substance detected, although other substances might have been present but not identified.
Causes of Kratom-Associated Deaths:
- Contaminated products
- Concurrent use with other substances such as:
- Opioids
- Benzodiazepines
- Alcohol
Importantly, there have been no reported deaths from pure kratom leaf use in Southeast Asia.
While some believe that kratom is less risky than traditional opioids and may offer benefits for those with opioid addictions, more research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy. In the opioid crisis, kratom research has taken a backseat to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. Raising awareness is one step in acknowledging kratom’s adverse role in our society.
Although it is starting to become regulated in some states and certain cities, it is still largely promoted as a dietary supplement and mood enhancer. Recognizing the dangers of kratom is crucial, but equally important is identifying kratom abuse symptoms to ensure timely intervention and support.
Recognizing the Signs of Kratom Abuse
Recognizing kratom abuse is crucial for timely intervention and support. Here are the key signs to look out for:
- Increased Tolerance: Needing more kratom to achieve the same effects.
- Cravings: Strong, uncontrollable urges to use kratom.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring work, school, or family duties due to kratom use.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing physical and psychological symptoms when not using kratom.
- Continued Use Despite Harm: Using kratom despite knowing it’s causing physical or psychological harm.
Understanding the signs of kratom abuse is the first step. Next, let’s explore how long it typically takes to detox from kratom and what the process involves.
How Long Does It Take to Detox from Kratom?
The duration of kratom detox depends on the individual’s level and duration of use. Here are the key points to consider:
- Onset of Withdrawal Symptoms: Typically begin within 12 to 24 hours after the last dose.
- Acute Phase: Lasts 3-5 days, with the most intense symptoms occurring during this period.
- Post-Acute Phase: Can last for several weeks or even months, with lingering symptoms.
The duration of the detox process also depends on the detox method used.
One of the main symptoms of kratom withdrawal is anhedonia, which is the inability to feel joy or pleasure. Many people report reduced motivation and enjoyment in activities they used to love. This withdrawal symptom usually passes over time.
Support from communities like the Reddit subreddit r/QuittingKratom plays a big role in helping individuals quit kratom.
While detoxing from kratom can be challenging, it’s important to also consider the potential benefits that some users report when using kratom responsibly.
Potential Benefits of Kratom: Fact or Fiction?
Kratom has recently come into the spotlight due to misuse in the opioid epidemic. Still, there are a few reported benefits when it’s used carefully, in small doses, and spread out over time.
Although these benefits are controversial and not yet fully backed by research, here are some that users have mentioned:
- Pain Relief: Some users report mild relief from chronic pain, viewing kratom as an alternative to prescription painkillers.
- Mood Enhancement: Kratom can slightly improve mood and provide a sense of well-being, which might help those with anxiety and depression.
- Increased Energy and Focus: In smaller doses, kratom may act as a mild stimulant, offering a modest boost in energy levels and concentration.
While these effects might sound appealing, it’s crucial to remember that more research is needed to fully understand kratom’s safety and efficacy.
Is Kratom Regulated?
In 2016, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) proposed classifying kratom as a Schedule I drug, indicating a high potential for misuse and no accepted medical use.
However, public outcry halted this proposal. Consequently, regulations vary by state and local authorities, creating a patchwork of bans and regulations.
The Bottom Line: Should You Use Kratom?
Despite being considered a “natural alternative” to prescription opioids, you should approach kratom with caution for several reasons:
- Lack of Research: Its safety and effectiveness are not well-studied.
- Drug Interactions: It can interact harmfully with other drugs.
- Risk of Dependence: Users can develop dependence and addiction.
Our recommended approach to opioid use disorder and misuse of kratom involves a medicine-based treatment regimen (MOUD) using buprenorphine (Suboxone) paired with counseling. Our providers are aware of kratom misuse and addiction and can help determine the best method of treatment for recovery.
Get Help with Kratom Addiction with QuickMD
Need help with kratom addiction? QuickMD offers convenient online addiction treatment, including MOUD with Suboxone and counseling. Contact us today to start your journey toward recovery.
