Kratom Addiction

Kratom addiction is something that is becoming more and more common. This herb is often used to self-medicate, becoming increasingly easy to obtain. While kratom can have some benefits, it is essential to know the dangers of kratom addiction before using this herb.

Kratom — also known as Mitragyna speciosa — is a tropical tree most commonly found in Southeast Asia. Its leaves are often dried and turned into powder or tea form. This herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. In recent years, kratom has become more prevalent in Western countries to self-treat pain, anxiety, and depression.

However, kratom addiction is a real problem that can lead to serious health consequences. This article will dive into kratom addiction and the kratom rehab at Icarus to help you better understand this problem and what makes up effective treatment.

What Does Kratom Do?

Kratom has stimulant and opioid-like effects. It contains mitragynine and seven-hydroxy mitragynine, alkaloids that interact with mu receptors in the brain, producing sedation, pleasure, and decreased pain. Mitragynine also interacts with kappa opioid receptors, leading to stimulant effects.

The effects of kratom depend on the dose. Small doses produce stimulant effects, while larger doses produce sedative effects.

When taken in small doses, kratom can:

• Increase alertness
• Improve mood
• Increase sociability

Meanwhile, kratom taken in larger doses can:

• Produce sedation
• Relieve pain
• Induce sleepiness

While it is legal in most Western countries, kratom is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. This means there is no quality control for kratom products, and they can vary widely in terms of potency and purity.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) once classified kratom as a Scheduled I drug, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. However, the DEA withdrew this classification in 2016 after a public outcry.

The lack of regulation around kratom means that it is often adulterated with other substances, which can be dangerous.

How Do People Use Kratom?

People use kratom in different ways.

The most common way is to chew the leaves of the kratom tree. However, a powder fo of kratom is also widely available. This powder can be mixed with water or made into kratom tea.

Some people also smoke kratom leaves or brew them as tea while others ingest it through capsules or tablets or concentrated, typically liquid, extracts or drinks.

“Toss and Wash” — a method of kratom ingestion — is also popular. This involves taking kratom powder and washing it down with a beverage.

There are also kratom extracts that are made into a liquid form. These liquids can be vaporized and inhaled or mixed with food or drinks.

Kratom products are often marketed as dietary supplements or alternative medicines. They are sold online, in kratom bars, and smoke shops or head shops.

What are the Side Effects of Taking Kratom?

While kratom does have some benefits, it also has several side effects.

Common side effects of kratom include:

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Increased urination
• Constipation
• Weight loss
• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Hallucinations
• Aggression
• Paranoia
• Depression
• Anxiety

Taking kratom can also lead to liver damage, as well as heart problems. There have also been reports of kratom overdoses, which can be fatal. Kratom addiction is also a real problem that can lead to serious health consequences.

Kratom Addiction: How it Develops

Drug abuse experts say that kratom addiction is similar to opioid addiction. This is because kratom produces similar effects to opioids in the brain.

People who struggle with kratom addiction often exhibit the following symptoms:

• Using kratom more frequently or in larger doses than intended
• Unsuccessfully trying to cut down on kratom use
• Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from kratom use
• Cravings for kratom
• Continuing to use kratom even though it is causing problems in their life
• Giving up important activities to use kratom
• Using kratom even when it is physically dangerous, such as driving while under the influence
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop taking kratom

Physical symptoms of kratom addiction include:

• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Anxiety
• Aggression
• Paranoia
• Hallucinations

What are the Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms?

When people addicted to kratom try to quit, they often experience opioid withdrawal symptoms such as:

• Muscle aches
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Hot flashes
• Cold sweats
• Jerky movements
• Chills

Psychological kratom withdrawal symptoms include:

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Hostility
• Agitation
• Depression
• Trouble sleeping

A drug addiction like this should be treated at a kratom rehab program like Icarus Behavioral Health. Here, clients will receive evidence-based kratom addiction treatment from a team of experts that will help them get their life back on track.

How Does Kratom Dependence Happen?

While kratom addiction is a real problem, kratom dependence is also something to be aware of. Kratom dependence occurs when someone takes kratom regularly and has difficulty functioning without it.

According to recent studies, people who take more than five grams of kratom per day are at risk for kratom dependence. Kratom tolerance can also develop, meaning people need to take more kratom to get the same effects.

It is worth noting that concentrated forms of kratom, such as the popular liquid extract OPMS, can contain several grams (or more) of active alkaloids in each bottle, making dependence occur more quickly than other methods of consumption.

Kratom Substance Abuse Treatment

Like opioid addiction, a kratom addiction requires professional treatment. Fortunately, Icarus Behavioral Health can help people struggling with this substance abuse disorder.

Some of the kratom addiction treatment options available include:

• Medication Assisted Treatment: While the FDA does not have approved kratom detox medication, Suboxone may be an effective kratom detox medication. Catapres and Panlor also show potential as kratom withdrawal medications.
• Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy and contingency management are effective treatments for opioid use disorder. Since kratom is similar to opioids, these methods may be effective for kratom addiction as well.
• Support Groups: 12-step groups like Narcotics Anonymous can provide support and accountability during kratom addiction recovery.
• Inpatient Treatment: For people with severe kratom addiction, inpatient treatment may be the best option. During inpatient rehab, people will receive 24-hour supervision and care. This allows them to focus on their recovery without distractions or temptations.

Depending on the severity of their kratom addiction, clients may need to detox before beginning treatment.

Icarus Behavioral Health offers both inpatient and outpatient drug addiction treatment. Clients will receive evidence-based addiction treatment that is tailored to their individual needs. If you or someone you know is struggling with kratom addiction, please reach out to us today.

Further Resources on Addiction Treatment for Kratom

This herbal substance is becoming more and more popular, but kratom addiction is a real problem. If you or a loved one is struggling with kratom addiction, help is available.

You can find resources about kratom addiction and rehab at the following websites:

• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): NIDA has information on kratom as well as other drugs of abuse.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): SAMHSA provides resources on kratom and other substance abuse disorders. SAMHSA also offers a national helpline that can help clients refer to kratom addiction treatment centers in their area.

Remember, support from family and friends is crucial during kratom addiction recovery. With the right program, kratom addiction can be overcome.

How To Find the Right Treatment Center for Kratom

Treating addiction — whether it’s an addiction to kratom or another substance — is a big decision. It’s important to do your research to find the right kratom addiction treatment center for you or your loved one.

Here are some factors to consider when you look for a kratom rehab center.

1. Experience

A treatment center that has experience treating kratom use disorders is more likely to have the resources and knowledge to help you or your loved one recover.

Icarus Behavioral Health specializes in substance abuse disorders. We have a team of experts who are experienced in treating kratom addiction and can provide evidence-based treatment.

Our clients will receive individualized treatment that is tailored to their unique needs. Aside from kratom addiction, we also treat mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

If you’re looking for treatment for kratom misuse, consider working with a center like ours that specializes in this disorder.

2. Cost

The cost of kratom addiction treatment can vary depending on the type of treatment and the length of stay. Some insurance companies may cover kratom rehab, so it’s important to check your coverage.

Icarus Behavioral Health offers therapy, inpatient treatment, and outpatient treatment. We accept most insurance plans and can work with you to create a payment plan if necessary.

Cost should not be the only factor that you consider when choosing a kratom rehab center, but it’s important to find a treatment option that is affordable for you.

3. Location

Treatment centers that are located near you may be more convenient, but it’s important to consider all of your options.

If you are situated in the New Mexico area, Icarus Behavioral Health is a treatment center that you may want to consider. We are based in Albuquerque and offer kratom addiction treatment, among other mental health services in a safe and welcoming setting.

If you’re not located near Albuquerque or if you’re looking for a kratom rehab center that offers a specific type of treatment, please reach out for other options.

4. Treatment Approach

The kratom addiction treatment approach that a rehab center uses can vary. Some centers may use medication-assisted treatment while others may focus on therapy and counseling.

Icarus Behavioral Health offers both inpatient and outpatient kratom treatment options. We believe in using a holistic approach to treating kratom addiction, which means that we will treat the whole person, not just the addiction.

When you’re looking for kratom rehab centers, consider what type of treatment approach you want. This will help you narrow down your options and find a kratom treatment center that is a good fit for you or your loved one.

Making the Decision To Get Help for Kratom Use

If you’re struggling with kratom, know that you’re not alone. Many people are in recovery, and there are treatment options available to help you overcome kratom dependence and addiction.

The first step is admitting that you have a problem and need help. This can be a difficult decision to make, but it’s an important first step in recovery.

When you’re ready to get help, reach out to a treatment center like Icarus Behavioral Health. We can provide you with the resources and support that you need to get lasting relief from kratom addiction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about kratom, addiction, and rehab.

Why Is Kratom Addictive?

Kratom has psychoactive properties and can produce feelings of euphoria. It’s these effects that can lead to kratom addiction.

People who struggle with kratom may take the drug to escape from problems or negative emotions. Overuse of Kratom can lead to physical, psychological, and financial problems.

Is Kratom Rehab Effective?

Yes, kratom rehab can be effective. The key is to find a rehab center that offers the right type of treatment for you or your loved one.

Look for a treatment center that offers a holistic approach to treatment, as this will address the physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects of kratom dependence.

Can I Quit Kratom on My Own?

It’s possible to quit kratom on your own, but it’s not always easy. Without professional help, you may be more likely to relapse.

Relapsing can be dangerous, as it can lead to a kratom overdose. This is why it’s important to get professional help when you’re trying to quit kratom.

A detox or kratom rehab program can help you through the withdrawal process and reduce your risk of relapse.

Find Help for Kratom at Icarus Behavioral Health

Kratom may be helpful to some people in certain medical situations, but it is important to be aware of the dangers of kratom addiction.

If you’re addicted to kratom, it’s important to seek professional help. Kratom addiction and dependence can lead to physical, psychological, and financial problems.

Reach out to Icarus Behavioral Health today for more information with a quick and confidential call. Give yourself the break from kratom you need, and join our recovery family today!