Kratom derives its name from the Kratom tree, an evergreen in the coffee family that grows in Asian countries such as Myanmar and Thailand. This psychoactive drug is used sometimes for traditional medicine but more often recreationally. Unfortunately, kratom can be addictive. If you or a loved one is suffering from kratom addiction, help is available. Silicon Beach Treatment Center offers a range of substance abuse treatment options at our kratom addiction treatment program, allowing you to begin your journey to recovery.
People may ingest kratom in a number of ways, such as in capsules filled with the leafy powder, steeped in water to create tea, or mixed with food. In addition to this, some users smoke kratom. This tropical plant gives a feeling similar to opioids due to the psychoactive alkaloids present in its makeup.
Kratom can be being both sedating and stimulating. Therefore, it has been used to treat chronic pain, improve emotional well-being, and even in the treatment of various addictions such as opioids and alcohol. In addition, in Southeast Asia, some use it as a means to boost appetite and stimulate sexual arousal. Other common uses for kratom include harsh coughs and indigestion. Symptoms of kratom may include:
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Kratom contains two main active ingredients, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain to produce pain relief, relaxation, and other effects. While kratom is not technically classified as an opioid, it can produce similar effects and has been used by some as a substitute for prescription opioids or illicit drugs.
Long-term use of kratom can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms when use is discontinued. Common withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, irritability, insomnia, muscle aches, and nausea. In some cases, kratom withdrawal symptoms can be severe and may require medical intervention.
There have also been reports of individuals developing addiction to kratom, characterized by compulsive use despite negative consequences such as financial, legal, or relationship problems. Kratom addiction can also lead to physical and mental health problems, including liver damage, respiratory depression, and psychosis.
It is important to note that not all individuals who use kratom will develop addiction or experience withdrawal symptoms. However, the risk of addiction and other negative consequences is a potential concern, particularly for those who use kratom regularly or in high doses.
If you or someone you know is struggling with kratom addiction or dependence, it is important to seek professional help from a qualified healthcare provider.
We understand that it can be overwhelming to make the decision to get help for substance abuse. The caring team at Silicon Beach Treatment Center is standing by ready to help you begin your journey.
Kratom poisoning cases were common between 2010 and 2015, with 600 reported. Between 2016 and 2017, kratom was involved in 152 overdose deaths, 91 of which had kratom as the main contributor to overdose.
Originally kratom was sold in the United States as a supplement to boost biochemistry. However, the drug is presently designated a Schedule I substance. The criteria needed to qualify for this classification are a high rate of dependence and a lack of evidence showing the drug to be medically relevant.
A number of Americans were upset by this classification, especially those using the substance for pain relief or as a means to ween off opiates and alcohol. One hundred forty thousand individuals participated in an online petition aimed at changing this verdict. The DEA refused to acknowledge these signatures.
To date, six states, including Vermont and Wisconsin, prohibit kratom by law. Furthermore, kratom is illegal in 16 countries. Presently the FDA has issued a country-wide ban on the substance being sold as a health supplement.
Kratom addiction is a complex issue that can affect individuals differently. However, there are several signs and symptoms that may indicate a problem with kratom use or addiction. Some common signs and symptoms of kratom addiction include:
Over time, individuals may need to use larger amounts of kratom to achieve the desired effects.
When use is discontinued, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, nausea, insomnia, and muscle aches.
Individuals may experience intense cravings for kratom, leading to compulsive use and difficulty controlling use.
Kratom addiction can lead to individuals neglecting responsibilities such as work, school, or family obligations.
Kratom addiction can be expensive, and individuals may experience financial difficulties as a result of their use.
Individuals may withdraw from social activities or relationships due to their use of kratom.
Long-term use of kratom can lead to physical health problems such as liver damage, respiratory depression, and constipation.
Kratom addiction can also lead to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
It is important to note that not all individuals who use kratom will develop addiction or experience negative consequences. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing any of the above signs or symptoms, it may be a sign of a problem with kratom use and professional help should be sought. A qualified healthcare provider, such as those available through our LA kratom rehab center, can help determine the best course of treatment for kratom addiction.
While overall, there is less abuse of Kratom in America than of opiates such as heroin, dependence can develop rapidly. Unfortunately, the effects can be severe. Kratom dependence is treated much like opioid addiction due to the many similarities. Similarly, the first step is medically supervised detoxification. Being under the care of a trained physician is essential to lessen withdrawal symptoms.
Upon completion, outpatient is recommended for up to three months and should be tailored to the needs of each individual, based on their behavioral patterns. Working to uncover the reasons for dependence, such as depression, anxiety, or abuse, is essential for the recovering addict.
No two people are the same, so at Silicon Beach Treatment Center, we have built a system tailored to each individual based on their needs, which increases the chance of long-term recovery. Some of these treatments include:
If you or a loved one is suffering from Kratom addiction, help is available. Contact Silicon Beach Treatment Center today at 866.520.4881 to learn about our treatment options and begin your journey to recovery.