Kratom, also known as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, is a plant used to increase energy, alleviate pain, and sedate. It can be ingested in the form of powder or tea. It is also available in gel capsules.
Although kratom can be consumed in a variety of ways, it is important to understand how much and how often you should take it. This will help you avoid addiction and side effects.
Dosage
Kratom has a wide range of effects, from stimulant-like, energizing and uplifting, to opiate-like, causing drowsiness and euphoria. It contains dozens of chemicals and has a complex profile. But two main compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, have strong activity at the mu opioid receptor. It is often consumed orally, mixed with a liquid such as tea or water or eaten in a capsule or pill.
A typical dose for pain relief is 2 to 4 grams of kratom powder. This dose is enough to ease pain without producing the side effects of high-dose use. The dosage varies by individual users, but most start with a low dose and gradually increase it. A higher dose can also produce the sedating and anxiety-relieving effects of kratom.
The most accurate way to measure a kratom dose is by weight using a digital scale. These are available at head shops and some grocery stores for a reasonable price. If a scale isn’t available, measuring by volume (such as teaspoons) works well too. However, it’s important to be consistent when weighing the kratom so the results are accurate. Heaped scoops and the amount of kratom packed into the spoon can affect the weight.
While kratom may be helpful for people who suffer from depression and anxiety, it’s important to treat these conditions with other therapies. These include psychotherapy, medication and other therapies that can provide long-term relief. Moreover, it’s important to speak with your doctor before starting a new treatment to avoid potential drug interactions.
Methods of administration
Kratom is consumed orally in powder, tablets, capsules, raw leaves and concentrate liquid extracts containing varying amounts of ethanol. It is recommended that users administer kratom a few times per day and follow dosage suggestions based on product type.
Although kratom is not FDA approved as a treatment for any specific medical condition, its popularity and availability has increased in recent years. It is often purchased over-the-counter as a herbal supplement and is advertised as a safe, legal alternative to opioids for pain relief. However, a growing body of evidence points to the potential for kratom abuse and dependence. The drug is also known to produce stimulant and euphoric effects when taken in large doses. In addition, the compounds mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine can interact with opioid receptors in the brain and cause the euphoric and pain-reducing effects associated with opioid use.
Because of these risks, kratom has received little scrutiny by the FDA and is widely available in a variety of forms. While the agency does support kratom research, it has not made any official guidance on its appropriate use or therapeutic claims. As a result, kratom is being sold online and in many specialty stores without any clinical testing or oversight. The American Kratom Association has reported details of more than 75 companies that may be making unsupported therapeutic claims, but the FDA has not pursued any action against them.
Side effects
In small doses of 1-5 grams, kratom acts as a stimulant and users feel more energetic, awake, social and talkative. At higher doses, up to 15 g, kratom has a sedative effect and can make people feel calm and relaxed. Ingesting more than 15 g can cause serious side effects, such as drowsiness, tremors, slow breathing and loss of consciousness. Mixing kratom with other drugs or alcohol can increase the risk of these side effects.
Kratom isn’t regulated, making it difficult to know what you’re getting and whether it’s laced with other substances. It’s also not recognized as a substance use disorder, which means it’s unlikely to be covered by insurance.
While kratom may seem like a harmless herbal supplement or natural alternative to opioids, it’s important to remember that it can be addictive and comes with many risks, including withdrawal. If you or someone you know is using kratom, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you start, the more likely it is that you can achieve a full recovery. For more information on kratom and addiction, visit NIDA’s website. You can also find help for yourself or a loved one by calling the NIDA Helpline at 1-800-662-DATA (8328). The call is free and confidential.
Precautions
If you are new to kratom, start by taking the lowest feasible dose. This will help you avoid the side effects that may come with high doses. Also, be sure to monitor your symptoms closely and adjust the dosage accordingly. You should also rotate strains and vein colors to prevent the rapid development of tolerance. Rotating different kratom strains can also reduce the risk of dependency by changing the alkaloid profiles you’re exposed to.
It is important to choose a reputable seller when purchasing kratom. Look for a vendor that offers a money-back guarantee and lab-tested products. This will ensure that you are getting a high-quality product that is safe to use. You should also avoid mixing kratom with other substances, as this can lead to negative side effects. It is especially important to avoid drinking alcohol while using kratom. In addition, some medications can interact with kratom and cause serious side effects.
It’s also essential to know your local laws and regulations before buying kratom. Some states have banned kratom, while others restrict it to certain counties or regions. In addition, the FDA has warned that kratom is not a legal opioid substitute. However, kratom advocates argue that the plant can help patients suffering from opioid withdrawal by mitigating pain and improving mood. Moreover, they claim that it can reduce symptoms of opioid use disorder such as rhinorrhea, insomnia, constricted affect, and poor concentration. How to use kratom
