Can You Overdose on Kratom?
Legacy Healing Center Blog
Kratom is a plant-based product that has been used as a dietary supplement, a way to increase energy, and a way to manage pain. While kratom has been used safely for centuries by people in Southeast Asia, there is concern about the potential overdose when used in high quantities or in combination with other substances. Our rehabilitation center answers the question, “Can you overdose on kratom?”
It is important to note that the risk of overdose is relatively low when kratom is used in moderation and according to the recommended dosage guidelines. The majority of adverse effects associated with kratom use occur when the substance is consumed in large quantities or mixed with other substances, such as alcohol or opioids.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia and is widely known for its medicinal properties. The plant has been used for centuries by the people of the region as natural pain relief, mood enhancement, and to provide an energy boost. The kratom leaves contain a variety of active compounds, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which produce effects similar to opioids when consumed in large quantities. This has led to concerns about if kratom is addictive.
Types of Kratom
There are several types of kratom, which are classified based on the color of the veins in their leaves. The most commonly available strains of kratom include:
- Red Vein Kratom – This is the most popular and widely available kratom. It is known for its sedative and pain-relieving properties and is often used as an alternative to traditional painkillers.
- Green Vein Kratom – This type of kratom is often described as having a balance of both red and white vein kratom. Because it is known for its mood-enhancing properties, it is often used as a natural alternative to antidepressants.
- White Vein Kratom – Known for its energizing and stimulating properties, this type of kratom is an alternative to traditional stimulants.
What Does Kratom Feel Like?
Kratom can produce a range of effects depending on the strain, dosage, and individual user’s body chemistry. However, some common effects of kratom include feeling:
- Pain relief
- Relaxation
- Euphoria
- Increased energy and focus
- Sedation
In general, low doses of kratom tend to produce stimulating effects, while higher doses tend to produce more sedative effects. Like any other drug, kratom can produce side effects and should be used with caution. Even more important to note is that you can form a kratom addiction.
Kratom Overdose Symptoms
Kratom is not an opioid, but because it interacts with opioid receptors in the brain, kratom can have similar effects. Like with most drugs, an overdose on kratom is possible, especially when mixed with other substances. Possible signs of kratom overdose include:
- Nausea
- Irritability and agitation
- Elevated blood pressure and rapid heartbeat
- Psychosis and seizure
Legacy Healing Center Is Here to Help You
Our rehabilitation treatment center has a team of experienced and licensed medical staff ready to help patients undergo therapy specific to their needs. We are happy to share with you this important information and answer, “Can you overdose on kratom?”
If you find that you or a loved one is struggling with the misuse of kratom, do not worry. Our therapy programs and levels of care can help.
Don’t let your addiction reach rock bottom, and let us help you begin this journey to sobriety. Feel free to contact us for more information.