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Robin Campbell, LMFT, PHD What is Kratom? Benefits, Risks, and DEA Concerns Explained Kratom, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, has gained attention for its use as an herbal medicine and dietary supplement, particularly among those…
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Clinical Editorial Team
Kratom, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, has gained attention for its use as an herbal medicine and dietary supplement, particularly among those seeking alternatives to opioid drugs. Kratom products, including kratom powder and other forms, are often marketed for pain relief, anxiety reduction, and even managing opioid use disorder. However, its rising popularity has sparked concern from health authorities like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as they warn consumers about the potential risks associated with kratom. Kratom contains psychoactive compounds that interact with the same receptors in the brain as opioids, leading to questions about its safety, potential for abuse, and the long-term health effects on kratom users. With ongoing research into its health effects, kratom regulation remains a critical focus for policymakers and medical professionals alike.
Kratom leaves are derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree native to Southeast Asia and have been traditionally used in countries like Thailand and Malaysia for their stimulant and pain-relieving properties. These leaves can be consumed by chewing, brewing into tea, or using in capsules, and they contain compounds that can have mind-altering effects. Kratom has gained popularity in the West for managing pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal. The active compounds in kratom, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects similar to opioids, though generally milder. Kratom can be consumed in various forms, such as capsules, powders, and teas. While some users find it beneficial for certain conditions, kratom use remains controversial due to its potential for addiction, adverse side effects, and lack of FDA approval.
Kratom has been used for a variety of purposes, both traditionally and in modern contexts. Some of the common uses of kratom include:
Kratom comes in various strains, typically categorized by the color of the leaf veins and the region where it’s grown. Each type of kratom is believed to have different effects, depending on its alkaloid profile. The three main types of kratom are:
Each of these kratom types can have varying effects depending on the dosage, with lower doses generally being more stimulating and higher doses offering more sedative effects.
Kratom is known by various street names, reflecting its informal use and distribution in different communities. Some common street names for kratom include:
These street names often emerge from local slang or cultural references, and while they are used in certain circles, the term “kratom” remains the most widely recognized name for the substance.
Yes, kratom can produce a “high,” though the effects vary depending on the strain, dosage, and individual tolerance. In lower doses, kratom typically acts as a stimulant, providing increased energy, alertness, and focus, similar to the effects of caffeine. In higher doses, however, it has more sedative and euphoric effects, similar to opioids. These effects can include a sense of relaxation, calm, pain relief, and, in some cases, mild euphoria.
The “high” that people experience from kratom is generally milder than stronger opioids but can still be significant. However, it is important to note that while kratom can produce these effects, it also carries risks, including potential for addiction, tolerance, and side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and constipation. Its long-term use or high doses can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
The efficacy of kratom remains a topic of debate due to limited scientific research and mixed user reports. While many individuals claim kratom is effective for managing pain, boosting energy, alleviating anxiety, and assisting with opioid withdrawal, the clinical evidence to support these claims is limited and largely anecdotal.
Kratom affects the body and brain through its two primary active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with several receptor systems, particularly opioid receptors. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Kratom’s legal status varies. In the United States, it is not federally classified as a controlled substance but is banned in several states like Alabama, Arkansas, and Wisconsin. The DEA once proposed classifying it as a Schedule I drug but withdrew the proposal after public backlash. Internationally, kratom is banned in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Australia, while it remains legal or unregulated in others like Canada and the UK. Its classification is under review due to concerns over safety and abuse potential.
The onset and duration of kratom’s effects depend on the dose, strain, and individual factors such as metabolism and tolerance:
Onset:
Duration:
The duration may vary based on the strain, with red strains typically lasting longer due to their sedative properties, while white and green strains may have shorter, more stimulating effects.
Kratom can stay in your system for varying lengths of time depending on factors such as dosage, frequency of use, metabolism, and individual physiology. The primary alkaloid in kratom, mitragynine, has a half-life of about 7 to 9 hours, meaning it takes this amount of time for half of the substance to be eliminated from the body. Given this half-life, kratom can typically stay detectable in your system for 1 to 3 days in occasional users, while frequent or heavy users may have traces of the substance in their system for up to 5 to 7 days. Drug tests do not routinely screen for kratom, but specialized tests can detect its presence in urine, blood, and hair samples.
The detectability of kratom in the body depends on the type of test, dosage, and frequency of use:
The specific detection windows can vary based on metabolism, dosage, and the type of kratom used.
Short-Term Side Effects:
Long-Term Risks:
Kratom use, especially in high doses or over a long period, can lead to serious health concerns and should be used with caution.
Yes, kratom can be addictive, especially with regular or high-dose use. Its active compounds, particularly mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain, which can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms similar to opioids. Prolonged use increases the risk of addiction, making it important to use kratom with caution.
Yes, it is possible to overdose on kratom, though it is rare. High doses can cause severe side effects such as extreme sedation, confusion, seizures, elevated heart rate, and in some cases, respiratory depression. While kratom overdoses are typically not fatal on their own, combining it with other substances, especially depressants like alcohol or opioids, can significantly increase the risk of life-threatening complications.
Combining alcohol and kratom can be dangerous due to their potentially synergistic effects. Both substances have depressant qualities at higher doses, which can lead to increased sedation, impaired motor coordination, and a heightened risk of respiratory depression. Mixing the two can also amplify side effects like nausea, dizziness, and confusion, making it more likely for someone to experience blackouts, accidents, or overdose. Additionally, using alcohol and kratom together increases the strain on the liver, raising the risk of liver damage or failure. It is generally advised to avoid using them simultaneously due to these significant health risks.
Kratom use during pregnancy is not recommended due to potential risks to both the mother and the fetus. Limited research suggests that kratom can lead to withdrawal symptoms in newborns, similar to opioid withdrawal, as well as potential developmental issues. Additionally, kratom may increase the risk of complications such as low birth weight and preterm labor. Pregnant women should avoid using kratom to minimize these risks.
Kratom addiction is caused by the active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which bind to opioid receptors in the brain. This interaction can produce euphoric and pain-relieving effects, leading to repeated use. Over time, the brain becomes dependent on these effects, resulting in tolerance, where higher doses are needed to achieve the same results. Regular use can then lead to physical and psychological dependence, with withdrawal symptoms occurring when kratom use is reduced or stopped.
Treatment options for kratom addiction typically involve a combination of approaches:
Many insurance plans do cover treatment for kratom addiction, as it falls under the broader category of substance use disorders. Coverage typically includes detoxification, behavioral therapy, and rehabilitation services. However, the extent of coverage varies by plan and provider, so it’s important to check with your insurance company to understand the specific benefits and any out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, certain treatment centers may offer sliding scale fees or payment plans for those without insurance.
Here’s a list of common insurance plans that typically cover addiction treatment:
Always check your specific plan for coverage details and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
As kratom continues to be promoted as an herbal extract and self-treatment for various ailments, the need for regulation and research is becoming increasingly apparent. While some users report benefits, kratom exposures, particularly in higher doses, have raised red flags due to safety concerns like kratom withdrawal, interactions with other drugs, and contamination risks such as harmful bacteria or heavy metals. Poison centers have reported cases of adverse effects, and ongoing studies aim to better understand the potential health impacts. Whether viewed as a natural alternative or a substance linked to drug abuse, kratom remains under scrutiny by agencies like the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as they work to protect public health from potential harm.
At New Hope Healthcare, as an in-network provider we work with most insurance plans, such as:
If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health challenges or substance abuse, reach out to New Hope Healthcare today. Our team of compassionate professionals is here to support your journey towards lasting well-being. Give us a call at 866-799-0806 or visit SAMHSA for more information.
What is kratom?
Kratom is a plant from Southeast Asia used for its stimulant and opioid-like effects.
Is kratom legal?
Kratom is legal in some places but banned in certain U.S. states and countries.
What is kratom used for?
Kratom is used for pain relief, energy, and managing opioid withdrawal.
Can kratom be addictive?
Yes, regular use can lead to dependence and addiction.
What are kratom’s side effects?
Side effects include nausea, dizziness, constipation, and potential liver damage.
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