While not illegal or drug this substance can be addictive which is why we are going to discuss it here. It is a green powder that comes from a tropical tree of South East Asia. More often than not it is labeled as not for human consumption which keeps it legal to buy. Found mostly in head shops and vape shops it can be brewed into a tea or chewed on.
It is a dangerous herbal substance that is not only addictive it has psychotropic effects on the brain. It is currently listed by the DEA as a drug of concern as in low doses it acts like a mild stimulate. In larger doses, it gives an opioid-like high. It is said to help relieve pain, help relaxation, improve mood, and increase energy.
Side effects of Kratom
There are several side effects of Kratom, we will break them down into common, short-term, and long term effects. One thing to note, it is unclear as to how much of the effects are directly attributable to kratom. Whether the person took something else as well or how high the dose of Kratom was.
The common side effects of Kratom include:
- Tiredness
- Palpitations
- Increased blood pressure
- Lack of concentration
- Hypothyroidism
- Lack of sleep
- Touchiness
- Convulsions
- Phobia
- Liver problems like hepatitis
- Comma
Short-term effects include:
- Quietness
- Ecstasy
- Chattiness
- Increased social behavior
- Sensitivity to sunburn
- Upset stomach
- Scratching
- Perspiring
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Amplified urination
- Lack of appetite
The long term effects include:
- Anorexia
- Sleep disturbance lack of sleep
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Psychotic symptoms that include hallucinations, delusion, and confusion
If you think a loved one is using Kratom watch for the common signs such as talkativeness, amplified social conduct, itching, and lack of appetite, perspiring, or odd or severe changes in mood, behavior, appearance, and overall health.
Withdrawal and recovery
While withdrawal symptoms are milder than opioid withdrawals, people who take large doses several times a day can experience the following withdrawal symptoms from Kratom:
- Muscle spasms
- Pain
- Insomnia
- Hot flashes
- Fever
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Lack of appetite
- Mood changes
- Diarrhea
Recovery will follow three steps which include physical stabilization, therapy, and recovery. Physical stabilization will use medications to keep the patient as comfortable as possible during withdrawals. Once the period of withdrawals is gone, then the patient will begin therapy.
Therapy can include several types of therapy such as cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or rational emotive behavioral therapy. There will be group and one-on-one counseling as well as family counseling involved. Call 449 Recovery (855) 435-7449, today.