Substance Abuse and Drug Addiction Information - Kratom

Known as Thang, Thom, or Ketum, Kratom is a tree native to the tropical setting of Thailand, Burma and Malaysia. The leaves of this tree have the unique ability to produce stimulant effects in low doses and sedative effects in high doses. These leaves are widely available on the internet. They’re often sold as crushed leaves for smoking or inside of gel caps.

Methods Of Abuse And The Effect Kratom Has On The Mind

This drug is mainly abused as an oral tea. Some people chew the leaves as well. The most common doses are between 2 to 10 grams, producing effects similar to psychostimulant drugs. In recent years, this plant has been promoted as an "herbal speedball" in the United Kingdom. The effects of Kratom take hold within 5 to 10 minutes of consumption. At low doses, the leaves will produce a stimulant effect, which has been reported to increase alertness, talkativeness and physical energy. At higher doses, abusers experience sedative-like effects. This drug is directly associated with numerous psychosis and has a high probability of being habit-forming and leading to addiction. Users often experience hallucination, delusion, and confusion from using this drug regularly. Overdosing on this drug often leads to long bouts of vomiting.

Effects On The Body From Kratom And Importance Of Addiction Treatment

Kratom consumption can have numerous effects on the body, including nausea, itching and sweating. Dry mouth, constipation, and increased urination can occur as well. Many long-term users experience a loss of appetite that can lead to anorexia or extreme weight loss. Some addicts are plagued with insomnia, skin darkening, or dry mouth as well. The addictive nature of this drug coupled with these adverse effects makes addiction treatment a priority. Addiction treatment for this drug will be similar to other psychostimulant drugs. Users will likely be advised to seek an inpatient facility. They'll stay at this facility for 30, 60, or 90 days to remove themselves from the environment that may cause them to relapse. This allows them to build the healthy habits they need to stay sober and become free from addiction. By speaking up about addiction, we can help to remove the stigma surrounding recovery and help make freedom from addiction a reality for even more people. If you know someone who is struggling with this drug, advising them to seek addiction treatment may be what they need to start living a healthier lifestyle. Call Freedom From Addiction for more information. We can help.