Key Takeaways
- Regular kratom use can lead to physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and, for some people, addiction.
- Kratom contains compounds that interact with opioid receptors and can produce both stimulant-like and opioid-like effects.
- People struggling with kratom use or withdrawal can seek professional addiction treatment and support, including help in the Kansas City area.
Kratom is an unregulated herb that delivers effects similar to those of opioids and stimulants. Because of its classification as an herb, it is widely available in the U.S. substance use landscape. However, there are serious concerns about the potential for kratom to lead to dependence or addiction.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), kratom contains compounds that interact with opioid receptors in the brain and can produce opioid- and stimulant-like effects. Regular kratom use may also lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical evergreen tree that grows in Southeast Asia. Since the 1800s, kratom leaves have traditionally been used for purposes such as increasing energy and managing discomfort. In the early days, the kratom leaf was chewed for its effect. Today, kratom is also available as a pill, powder, capsule, tea, or in extract form. The leaves may also be smoked or eaten.
While kratom is currently legal in much of the U.S., including Missouri, its legal status varies by state and locality and can change over time.
What is Kratom Used For?
Kratom, derived from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, serves multiple purposes across different cultures and contexts. Traditionally, laborers in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia used it for centuries as a natural stimulant to increase energy, alleviate fatigue, and enhance work productivity when chewed or brewed into tea.
In Western countries, many people report using kratom for reasons including:
- Pain or discomfort
- Increasing energy or alertness
- Managing opioid withdrawal symptoms
- Mood-related effects
At lower doses, kratom may produce stimulant-like effects that include increased energy, sociability, and alertness, while higher doses may produce more opioid-like or sedating effects.
These reported uses should not be confused with established medical treatments. Kratom is not approved by the FDA for any medical use, and research into its safety and effectiveness is ongoing.
Side Effects of Kratom Use
Any substance, legal or not, that causes dependence or addiction means there will likely be unpleasant, possibly severe, side effects when use stops. There are many side effects from kratom use and withdrawal, and while some are mild, some can be dangerous.
Reported adverse effects associated with kratom can include:
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Confusion or changes in mental state
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Sedation or breathing problems, particularly in serious cases or when other substances are involved
There have been deaths associated with kratom use. However, in many cases, other potentially harmful substances were also present, making it difficult to determine kratom’s role.
Research into kratom’s short- and long-term safety is still developing, but dependence, withdrawal, and problematic use have been reported.
Is Kratom an Opioid?
Kratom occupies a complex position in pharmacology that doesn’t fit neatly into the opioid classification. Its primary active compounds, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain. This helps explain why kratom can produce some opioid-like effects.
However, kratom is not the same substance as traditional opioids such as morphine or heroin. Its pharmacology is complex, and researchers continue to study how its compounds work, their potential risks, and whether they may have legitimate therapeutic applications.
This nuanced understanding has significant implications for how we approach kratom’s potential benefits in pain management and addiction treatment, as well as concerns about its safety and regulation.
Kratom Withdrawal: Symptoms and Getting Help
Kratom withdrawal occurs when individuals who have regularly consumed kratom for extended periods suddenly reduce or stop their usage. The intensity and duration of withdrawal symptoms typically depend on factors such as the length of use, dosage amount, and individual physiology.
Commonly reported kratom withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Muscle aches
- Insomnia
- Irritability or restlessness
- Runny nose
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Decreased appetite
- Cravings
- Anxiety or changes in mood
Physical symptoms can resemble some symptoms associated with opioid withdrawal.
The timing and severity of kratom withdrawal can vary considerably from one person to another. Factors such as how often kratom is used, the amount used, duration of use, other substances being taken, and overall health can influence the withdrawal experience.
Those experiencing significant withdrawal may benefit from medical supervision. A healthcare or addiction treatment professional can assess symptoms and help determine an appropriate approach rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all withdrawal timeline.
Kratom Dependence vs. Addiction
Physical dependence can happen with many substances, including prescription drugs. Dependence means the body has adapted and changed due to the continued presence of the substance. If a substance like kratom has been used long-term and then stopped, withdrawal effects may result.
Addiction involves more than physical dependence. It can involve compulsive substance use and difficulty stopping despite harmful consequences.
Someone can be physically dependent on a substance without necessarily meeting the criteria for a substance use disorder, which is why professional assessment can be helpful when kratom use becomes difficult to control.
“Kratom is no different than any other drug in that sense. If you feel like you need it just to get through the day, or you want to stop and can’t, it’s worth asking for help. You don’t have to wait until everything falls apart to do something about it. Sometimes recognizing that it’s become a problem is the first step toward getting your life back.”
— Taylor Brown, CRADC, Midwest Recovery Centers
What States Banned Kratom?
Kratom laws vary throughout the United States, with some states and local jurisdictions restricting or prohibiting its sale, possession, or use. Because these laws can change, anyone looking for information about kratom’s legality should verify the current rules in their state and local jurisdiction.
The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use, and federal agencies have continued to monitor concerns involving kratom products, safety, dependence, and misuse.
Although there is anecdotal evidence that kratom may be effective for pain control and other uses, more research is needed to establish its safety and effectiveness for medical purposes. The FDA has warned consumers about risks associated with kratom and has not approved kratom products as treatments for any medical condition.
In 2016, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced its intent to temporarily place kratom’s primary active compounds into Schedule I. The DEA later withdrew that notice while seeking additional scientific and public input. Kratom’s regulatory status has continued to evolve since then.
Getting Help for Kratom Addiction and Withdrawal in Kansas City
If kratom use has become difficult to control, you are experiencing withdrawal when trying to stop, or kratom is negatively affecting your life, professional support may help. Dependence and addiction can look different from person to person, so treatment should be based on the individual’s needs and circumstances.
Midwest Recovery Centers serves individuals in the Kansas City area who are struggling with substance use and need support in recovery. If you’re looking for kratom addiction or withdrawal help in Kansas City, our team can discuss your situation and help you explore appropriate treatment options.
You don’t have to figure out the next step alone. Contact Midwest Recovery Centers to learn more about available support and treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kratom and where does it come from?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves have traditionally been used for their stimulant- and opioid-like effects and are now commonly sold as powders, capsules, teas, and extracts.
What are the potential uses of kratom?
People report using kratom for increased energy, pain or discomfort, mood-related effects, and managing opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, the FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use.
What are the risks and side effects of kratom use?
Kratom can cause side effects and may lead to dependence and withdrawal with regular use. Reported adverse effects include nausea, increased heart rate, confusion, sedation, and, in more serious cases, seizures or breathing problems.
What are the symptoms of kratom withdrawal?
Kratom withdrawal may include muscle aches, insomnia, irritability, restlessness, nausea, sweating, tremors, cravings, and changes in mood. The severity and duration of withdrawal can vary depending on the individual and their pattern of kratom use.
Where can I get help for kratom addiction or withdrawal in Kansas City?
If kratom use has become difficult to control or you experience withdrawal when trying to stop, professional support may help. Midwest Recovery Centers provides substance use treatment and recovery support for individuals in the Kansas City area.
Reviewed and Assessed by
Taylor Brown, B.A.Com., MAADC II
Tim Coleman, M. of Ed.