Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tree native to Southeast Asia. It is from the same family as the coffee tree. The leaves of the kratom tree have been used medicinally by herbalists for millennia as both a stimulant (low doses) and sedative (higher doses). It is a painkiller, anti-diarrheal, traditional treatment for opiate addiction, and of course, a recreationally used drug. Though it is illegal in Australia and parts of Southeast Asia, it is currently legal in the United States and sold as an herbal supplement/traditional medicine.
Kratom is an interesting drug in that in very low doses, it usually has a mildly stimulating effect, but at higher doses is sedating. When used as a stimulant, the individual using the drug will feel more alert and energetic and is sometimes more sociable, talkative and friendly. Some people also report feeling “edgy” when using kratom in this way, which can be pleasant or unpleasant, depending on the individual.
Most often, kratom is used in some forms of Asian traditional medicine as a sedative or analgesic. When used in this way, individuals lose sensitivity to physical and emotional pain, which is part of what makes the drug addictive. Individuals who use this drug at higher doses will seem “drugged.” They will have constricted pupils, may be nauseated, and become tired or listless. Those who are using the drug recreationally are looking for a dream-like euphoric state, which the substance is known to provide.
Kratom can be very dangerous if ingested with other drugs, such as cocaine or other stimulants, as the combination can over-stimulate the heart and increase blood pressure to dangerous levels. Also, kratom should not be taken with other sedative substances, such as heroin, prescription painkillers, alcohol, or benzodiazepines, as this can cause an over-sedating effect and lead to respiratory depression and/or death. Use with MAO drugs can lead to death. Other drug interactions have not been studied. In short, if this drug is to be taken at all, it must be taken completely on its own and in very low doses.
Why am I writing about kratom? …because we’re starting to see the results of its abuse in clients at treatment centers. Because the substance is legal (at this time) in the United States, some are using it as a substitute for heroin. This, however, is a dangerous substitution as the substance is addictive, can cause tremendous health problems including death, and is unsafe for recreational use.