Last Updated: September 27, 2023

What Is Kratom?

Kratom comes from the tropical kratom tree (Mitragyna speciosa). While the tree is native to Southeast Asia, the leaves containing chemicals that give off psychotropic effects became popular in the U.S. People consume the drug in different forms: pills, capsules, extracts and fresh, dried and powdered leaves.

The Dangers of Using Kratom Regularly

Using kratom regularly is dangerous. Even though the plant is not an opiate, the chemicals found in the leaves interact with the same opioid receptors that cause a sense of euphoria. Using kratom regularly can result in kratom addiction and dependency. Some people dependent on kratom notice symptoms such as:

• Muscle aches and pains
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Hostility
• Aggression
• Emotional changes

It is also possible to overdose on kratom. Between 2011–2017, 11 deaths were associated with kratom use. If you or a loved one uses kratom regularly, it’s important to understand its side effects. Recognizing the symptoms of abuse can alert you to the risk of addiction in yourself or a loved one.

Is Kratom Safe? Is It Legal?

Kratom is an unregulated substance that is not considered safe. Its use has been linked to deaths and risk of psychosis. Although the Drug Enforcement Administration has labeled kratom a Drug and Chemical of Concern, it is not currently a controlled substance or illegal at the federal level. However, several states and cities have banned kratom, including:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Indiana
• Rhode Island
• Wisconsin
• Denver, Colorado
• Jerseyville, Illinois
• San Diego, California

Effects of Long-Term Kratom Use

While the leaves of the kratom tree might seem to offer desirable effects such as euphoria, sedation or decreased pain, the risks of long-term kratom use are poorly understood. Experts suspect kratom may have undesirable, destructive and dangerous long-term effects.

Liver and Kidney Damage

One of the most harmful long-term effects of regular kratom use is liver and kidney damage. The leaves of the kratom tree are not safe to consume and can cause lasting harm to your body as it fails to filter toxins. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice signs of liver and kidney damage, such as dark urine or yellowing skin.

Loss of Appetite

Using kratom can suppress the appetite and result in a loss of appetite. People familiar with the plant’s properties have tried to capitalize on this and created weight loss aids that include kratom, pointing to the plant’s ability to suppress hunger. These diet products are usually unregulated and generally unsafe. A loss of appetite can result in overall health problems and a lack of nutrition.

Constipation

Constipation is another side effect of using kratom regularly over time. The condition can be painful and disruptive to one’s day-to-day life. Always consult a medical professional if constipation lasts for an extended period, as an underlying medical condition may need to be addressed.

Irritation

Taking kratom regularly over the long term does not just have negative physical effects. It can cause emotional distress and other undesirable symptoms like irritation. People struggling with a kratom addiction can become moody, aggressive and irritated. These symptoms are often a result of kratom withdrawal, indicating a physical dependence on the drug.

Addiction

Many physical symptoms that are the effects of long-term kratom use are also withdrawal symptoms. An addiction may also develop when someone becomes physically dependent on a substance like kratom. Signs of a kratom addiction include:

• Decreased performance at school or work
• Regular use of kratom
• Avoiding family and friends
• Associating with people who use kratom
• Desire and effort to obtain more kratom, often at the expense of other obligations
• Being secretive or defensive about kratom use
• Inability to feel normal without kratom
• Difficulty stopping kratom use

Research on the Long-Term Effects of Kratom

More research is needed on the long-term effects of regular kratom use. Even though the Drug Enforcement Administration has not yet scheduled kratom as a controlled substance, this does not mean it is not dangerous and harmful. Rather, the lack of action signals that more research is in process and needed to continue informing the public on kratom’s health effects. Traditionally, kratom was used as an opioid alternative in Southeast Asia; however, the drug has a host of its own dangers and may also have a potential for addiction.

In the meantime, looking out for signs of kratom addiction and dependency is important. Recovery is possible if you or a loved one struggles with kratom addiction. Contact The Recovery Village Columbus to speak to a Recovery Advocate today about how medical detox and personalized addiction treatment and rehab can set you on a healthier life path.

Effects of Short-Term Kratom Use

The effects of short-term kratom use are well-known because the drug causes stimulant side effects at low doses and sedative side effects at high doses. Effects typically start 5–10 minutes after taking the drug and last two to five hours. 

At low doses, users can expect effects like:

• Increased alertness
• Increased energy
• Talkativeness 
• Sociability

However, at high doses, effects include sedation and euphoria. 

In addition to its stimulant and sedative effects, kratom can cause other side effects like:

• Nausea
• Appetite loss
• Constipation
• Itching
• Sweating
• Increased urination
• Dry mouth

Kratom Addiction

Experts are still debating whether kratom is addictive or not. As a result, the drug has not yet been made a controlled substance at the federal level. 

However, the possibility of kratom addiction may exist. Addiction typically starts when a person begins to take a substance to fulfill a non-medical purpose like euphoria. Over time, the person continues to compulsively use the drug despite knowing it is harmful and has difficulty stopping.

Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone takes kratom regularly, their brain and body become used to the drug’s presence. Therefore, suddenly stopping it can send the brain and body into disarray, causing withdrawal symptoms. Kratom’s withdrawal symptoms are similar to withdrawal symptoms from opioids and include:

• Nausea
• Sweating
• Muscle aches
• Insomnia 
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Restlessness

Kratom withdrawal symptoms can be hard to overcome on your own, but success is possible with the right support. At The Recovery Village Columbus, we are with you every step of the way as you recover from kratom. Contact us today to learn more.