You might have heard of kratom largely thanks to the growing popularity of the ‘Feel Free’ range of drinks that have been making headlines both in the UK and abroad. But what is kratom, what does kratom do and are there any risks associated with this ingredient.
We’ll take a closer look at the issues surrounding kratom…
What Is Kratom?
Kratom comes from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree that is native to Southeast Asia. It has traditionally been used in some countries for its observed stimulant and pain-relieving properties. It is typically taken orally and sold in the form of powders, capsules, teas and extracts.
Kratom is currently creating a buzz in the wellness industry and is marketed as a natural product with beneficial properties. It’s worth remembering though that ‘natural’ does not automatically mean safe.
Kratom is prohibited in the UK under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. This makes it an offence to produce or supply any substance intended for human consumption that is capable of producing a psychoactive effect, even if they are not specifically named.
What Does Kratom Do?
The details of kratom’s effects on the brain are still being investigated, but the main mechanism is believed to be an interaction between active alkaloid compounds within the drug and opioid receptors in the brain.
The effects can vary quite widely depending on the dosage. Lower doses may produce stimulant-like effects, while higher doses can produce sedative and opioid-like effects. In some respects it can be seen as similar to alcohol – in that lower doses can provide an energetic and confident feeling while higher doses act as a central nervous system depressant.
Responses can vary significantly between individuals though, as well as depending on the dosage used.
Short-Term Effects
Some possible short-term kratom effects may include:
- Increased energy
- Improved alertness
- Relaxation
- Pain relief
- Euphoria
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Dizziness
Again, these effects can depend on a number of factors including dose, product strength and any individual health issues.
Why People Take Kratom
People may seek out product containing kratom for a variety of reasons, some of which may be based on spurious marketing claims.
These could include pain management, providing a boost in energy, managing anxiety and self-managing opioid withdrawal. Kratom is also increasingly used recreationally.
It should be remembered that kratom is not an approved medical treatment for pain or opioid withdrawal and that evidence regarding its safety and effectiveness remains limited. Opioid detoxification can be very challenging and potentially dangerous and should be undertaken with medical supervision if at all possible.
Is Kratom Addictive?
While some people believe that kratom is safer than opioids there is growing evidence that kratom addiction can be a serious issue and that long term or regular use can lead to both physical and psychological dependence.
Physical dependence means that the system grows used to the presence of the drug and alters its chemistry to compensate. When it is taken away, the user may experience a range of kratom withdrawal symptoms.
They may also develop a tolerance to kratom, meaning they need to use more and more of it for the same effect. This can lead to escalating use and compulsive behaviour.
Signs Someone May Be Dependent on Kratom
Some indications that kratom dependence may be developing could include:
- Needing increasing amounts
- Cravings
- Difficulty stopping
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Continuing to take despite negative consequences
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Mood changes
- Financial or relationship problems
Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms that can occur after regular use can include:
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Muscle aches
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Nausea
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Strong cravings
Detoxing from kratom can be difficult, but professional drug detox support can make withdrawal safer and more manageable.
What Are the Risks of Using Kratom?
As well as the potential for dependence as outlined above, there are a number of potential health implications and kratom risks.
Kratom use has been associated with liver problems and physical kratom side effects can include tachycardia (increased heart rate), vomiting, drowsiness and loss of appetite. Seizures have also been reported, although this is rare.
Effects on mental health are more commonly reported and can include psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and confusion.
The risks may be increased if the drug is mixed with other substances and also if unregulated products are contaminated or have an unpredictable potency. Supplements purchased online may vary significantly in strength and purity.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
You should seek professional help if you find yourself unable to stop using, notice your kratom use is increasing or find yourself experiencing cravings and withdrawal symptoms when you do try to stop. Another sign that you might have a problem includes continuing to use the drug despite negative consequences.
It’s never too late or too early to seek help, but early intervention will generally improve recovery outcomes.
How Kratom Addiction Is Treated
While a drug recovery programme should be tailored to the individual, there will usually be some common elements. These will generally include a clinical assessment followed by medically supported detox where appropriate
Psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), group therapy and counselling can help deal with the psychological aspects of addiction, while relapse prevention sessions and aftercare support can help you to maintain your recovery moving forward.
Reach Out for Support Today
Kratom can affect the brain in ways similar to opioids and can act as both a stimulant and depressant, depending on the dosage and other factors. Although some people use it to self-medicate pain or boost energy levels, it does carry genuine risks.
Dependence can develop with ongoing use, but professional treatment is always available and recovery is very much achievable.
Contact Cassiobury Court for confidential advice if you are worried about your own or someone else’s kratom use. Call us today on 0800 001 4070.
