If you’re reading this article, then you may have heard about kratom or it’s also possible that you’re using the substance. You’re probably wondering whether suddenly stopping the use of this substance can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
In this article, we’ll talk about what kratom is and why people take this substance. We’ll also cover what happens when you stop using kratom, how long the withdrawal symptoms last, and how to prevent them.
Understanding how to deal with kratom withdrawal symptoms can help those who have developed a dependency on this substance get their lives back under control again quickly and easily.
Why Do People Take Kratom?
First, let’s discuss what kratom is. Kratom is a natural herb that grows in Southeast Asia and has been used there for centuries by locals who chew on its leaves or brew them into tea for a variety of uses including pain relief, relaxation, or even just socializing with friends.
When taken in a small amount, kratom reportedly acts as a stimulant, raising your energy levels. However, when you consume more, kratom will have a sedative effect similar to how opioid affects the brain and the body.
Kratom is not a controlled substance that’s why it is available online and marketed as a dietary supplement. Usually, it’s sold in pill form (capsules) or ground up into a powder that can be mixed with water or other beverages such as juice and soda.
In the United States, it has become popular either as an opioid alternative or as a substance used to control opioid withdrawal symptoms. Since it is natural, many users mistakenly believe that taking kratom is harmless. However, that is not the case at all.
The problem with this plant is that it can be addictive. Many people who use the product regularly tend to find themselves getting more and more addicted to the substance. This means that they become psychologically dependent on the herb just like any other drug of abuse.
Kratom has no approved medical uses from the FDA but this does not stop many users from self-medicating with kratom or taking the substance as a recreational drug. The increasing number of users in America also prompted the Drug Enforcement Administration or DEA to list kratom as a “drug of concern”.
Can You Get Withdrawal Symptoms from Kratom?
Yes, stopping the use of kratom can result in withdrawal symptoms. After regularly using the substance, it may be possible that your body is already addicted to this herb so it is highly likely for you to get withdrawal symptoms if you quit using it.
So what are the common withdrawal symptoms that you can expect? We have listed down some of the physical and psychological symptoms that you may experience if you suddenly stop using kratom.
abdominal cramps- agitation
- anxiety
- blurred vision
- decreased appetite
- depression
- diarrhea
- dilated pupils
- fever
- heart rate and blood pressure changes
- hot flashes and sweats
- insomnia
- irritability
- jerky movements
- mood swings
- muscle aches
- nausea and vomiting
- runny nose
- seizures
- watery eyes
How Long Does Kratom Withdrawal Last?
If you start experiencing kratom withdrawal symptoms, you may be wondering how long you would have to endure these symptoms. Typically, symptoms will start within 12 to 48 hours of your last kratom use. If you are a long-term user of kratom, it’s possible to experience the withdrawal symptoms quicker.
Once you start experiencing withdrawal symptoms, these will usually last from 3 to 10 days. Again, this will depend on how much of a kratom user you are. The more dependent you are on the substance, the more likely you are to experience painful withdrawal symptoms that last longer.
How to Deal with Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
The best way to deal with kratom withdrawal symptoms is to get help from addiction specialists or medical personnel who can guide you through the process of getting over this drug dependency.
While many online resources give tips like staying hydrated, getting enough rest, or staying relaxed, the best approach is still to consult with a professional addiction specialist. An expert will be able to provide safe and effective advice on how you can manage your symptoms as well as how to avoid relapsing.
If you are a kratom user and you want to quit, contact us for more information about your treatment options. If you are using kratom for opioid withdrawal symptoms and you’re finding it hard to manage your condition, help is available.
We can provide you with a personalized treatment program to help you successfully put an end to your kratom dependence for good.
Contact Lighthouse Treatment Center today.
