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Kratom has been one of the recent substances touted as an all-natural alternative to pain relief drugs, but that’s only one side of the story. The DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) has listed it as a drug of concern due to a significant increase in abuse of Kratom in recent years.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant that is found in Southeast Asia. It is used to treat various problems such as pain relief, stress reduction and as a relaxant. The leaves are chewed, or dried, and crushed into powder to make tea to fight tiredness. Kratom is sometimes sold in liquid form as a treatment to stop diarrhea and cramps. However, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has not approved medical uses for Kratom.
Kratom can be effective in relieving pain because it contains mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which act on opioid receptors in the brain. However, it is a unique plant, and is not regulated by the Controlled Substances Act, so the dosage has different effects and impacts on the body.
For instance, when consumed at a low rate, it boosts energy as a stimulant; at a higher rate, it alleviates pain, while at a very high rate, it acts as a sedative, and can induce psychotic symptoms, similar to some opioids. Due to this reason, the potential for abuse of Kratom is high, leading to the FDA ordering seizure and destruction of any products containing Kratom.
Kratom Withdrawal
Although Kratom is a natural supplement, many individuals experience withdrawal symptoms after long term use or abuse of the substance. Because of the addictive nature of Kratom, individuals develop tolerance and then dependence on the substance over continued use. When they try to quit, they may develop withdrawal symptoms which leads to going back to using the drug, creating a vicious cycle. Withdrawal symptoms and their severity can vary depending on the dosage of the substance and the length of usage.
Detoxification can be an effective way to stop using Kratom, however it should be performed professionally and under clinical supervision. Medical professionals can help alleviate the withdrawal symptoms and reduce risks by creating an individualized treatment plan based on the person’s history of Kratom use.
Risks and Side Effects of Kratom
Many people think Kratom is safe because it is natural, but research has shown that it poses a great danger to the human body and can cause death in extreme cases. This is because it contains potent ingredients, so you need to consult an expert or a doctor before taking it. Below are the side effects of Kratom:
- Weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Aggression
- Itching
- Loss of appetite
- Tremor
- Frequent urinating
- Muscle pain
- Nausea and vomiting
Other crucial effects include:
- Breathing suppression
- Liver damage
- Hallucinations
- Cardiac issues such as high blood pressure and heart attack
- It causes brain diseases like Encephalopathy.
- Seizure and death
Is Kratom Legal?
The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) has warned people about the risks of taking Kratom, and it has been banned in a few states.
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Indiana.
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Wisconsin
In as much as the intake of Kratom poses more danger to the body, it is still legal under state law and available in states like California, Florida, and Colorado. However, it is forbidden and regulated in many countries.
How Long Does Kratom Last?
The effects of Kratom can last for 5-6 hours, depending on how you take it. If taken on an empty stomach, the effects will occur within 30-40 minutes. If taken after eating, it could take longer to kick in and stay longer than on an empty stomach. It could take over 60 minutes for the full effect to kick in if used after eating.
The Interaction Between Kratom and Other Substances
Kratom contains powerful ingredients, so combining it with another substance may worsen its effect. For example, consuming it with sedatives or coffee could cause respiratory problems. Research has also shown that the interaction between Kratom and other drugs can cause severe damage, so it is advisable to meet a doctor to get the appropriate dosage.
Having Trouble with Kratom?
Most specialists consider Kratom as an Opioid because it interacts with the Opioid Receptors in the brain and can act as a stimulant or pain relief just like an Opioid. And similar to other opioids, Kratom is addictive, and many people abuse it, especially when it is a prescribed medication. If you are struggling with Kratom addiction, don’t wait.
Reach out to us to get started on your recovery. Call us at 865-800-0947
