Kratom Use: Effects, Addiction & Withdrawal

Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical tree native to the lush rainforests of Southeast Asia, particularly found in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The leaves of this tree are the source of a popular plant-based product that has garnered attention in both traditional and modern herbal practices. Users often turn to kratom for its stimulating effects, which can provide a boost of energy, as well as for its potential analgesic properties, offering relief from various types of discomfort and pain.

In the United States, kratom is widely available in several forms, including whole, chopped, or finely powdered leaves. These leaves can be consumed in various ways, such as encapsulated in easy-to-swallow capsules or brewed into teas and tinctures. Additionally, leaf extracts are produced for those seeking a more concentrated dose of the active compounds found in kratom.

Consumers typically find kratom products online or at local herbal shops, as well as in tobacco and smoke shops. The marketing often portrays kratom as a “legal” alternative for achieving a “natural” high, appealing to those interested in herbal remedies and recreational substances. Despite its growing popularity, it is important for potential users to be aware of the varying legal status and health implications associated with kratom use.

What is Kratom?

There have been several deaths linked to the use of kratom, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System. In many of these cases, kratom was not the only substance used, or it was found to be adulterated—meaning it was mixed with other chemicals or substances.

Although the FDA monitors these adverse events and has issued warnings, kratom remains unregulated at the federal level, and the FDA has not approved it for any medical use. The reported deaths have raised concerns from both the FDA and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration regarding the safety of kratom.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has highlighted issues related to kratom, noting that it prompted 1,807 calls to poison control centers between 2011 and 2017. The CDC also reported that between July 2016 and December 2017, kratom was involved in polydrug overdose deaths in 27 out of 32 states that participate in the State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System. In 2018, kratom contaminated with salmonella bacteria infected 199 people across 41 states.

Effects of Kratom

Traditionally, kratom was used by workers in Malaysia and Thailand in low doses as a stimulant in order to increase work efficiency and endurance in the hot and human climate.⁴ In addition to the physical and mental energy boost, it also increases alertness and talkativeness.² In higher doses, kratom produces effects more like a depressant, producing sedation, pleasure and decreased pain.¹

In addition to the desired, dose-dependent effects, there are a number of potential side effects:^1,2

• Sweating.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Itching.
• Sleepiness.
• Dry Mouth.
• Constipation.
• Increased urination.
• Appetite loss.
• Seizures.
• Hallucinations.

Kratom has also reportedly caused more alarming side effects, including weight loss, aggression, hostility and psychosis.^11,13

Kratom Withdrawal and Dependence

Similar to opioids and other opioid-like drugs, evidence points to kratom causing dependence.^1,12 Moderate to heavy regular users may experience withdrawal symptoms once they stop taking the drug.^1,12 Kratom withdrawal symptoms can include:^1,10

• Irritability.
• Hostility.
• Aggressive behavior.
• Jerky movements of the arms and/or legs.
• Emotional changes.
• Runny nose.
• Insomnia.

Researchers have not yet formally studied any specific medical treatment for kratom addiction, however, the National Institute of Drug Abuse has reported that people seeking treatment have found that behavioral therapy is helpful.¹

Interestingly, kratom is being investigated by researchers for its potential to mitigate drug cravings and withdrawal effects resulting from opioid dependency.³

Help is just a phone call away. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction and are unsure of what to do, call us today at . Greenhouse Treatment Center, American Addiction Centers’ rehab center near Fort Worth, Texas, is ready to help you get the treatment you need today.