If a kratom user begins to show alterations in behavior, appearance, experience health issues or becomes withdrawn, they could be experiencing the effects of a kratom addiction. These changes are caused by alterations in the brain which occur during kratom usage. As such, it’s impossible to just tell the person to stop taking kratom, it doesn’t work that way. So, knowing this, just what is involved in a kratom addiction, and how can it be dealt with? To get a better understanding of this complicated issue, we’ve compiled some important facts about kratom addiction designed to jumpstart your understanding of the condition.
Kratom Addiction is on the Rise
According to the American Addiction Center, kratom addiction appears to be on the increase in the U.S. However, kratom taken in proper doses does no real harm. In fact, kratom is known to benefit users. It’s even used as one method to wean individuals off of their opioid addiction. Sadly, like sweets, if taken to the extreme, kratom users can experience addiction, as kratom’s interaction with the brain’s opioid receptors is similar to morphine.
Signs and Symptoms of Kratom Addiction
Kratom is available in a number of forms, such as kratom pills, kratom powder, kratom extract, and even kratom tea. Not only is kratom effective in the proper doses, but it’s generally undetectable in some drug tests. But that doesn’t mean that kratom addiction remains undetectable as well. So, how can you tell if someone is dependent? In this regard, QKratom is a vendor site who guides its users about safe use of kratom. As it has a similar effect on the brain receptors as morphine, you can expect to see the following symptoms in any kratom user that has reached addiction status:
- Increased dependence and tolerance
- Constipation
- Take the drug multiple times a day, every day
- They may become obsessed with the drug
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Loss of appetite
Kratom Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms can be very painful for recovering kratom addicts. After all, their body has been used to being “fed” this substance whenever it wanted it. Now, the supply has ceased, and the body is in a state of rebellion, for lack of a better word. The following kratom withdrawal symptoms are provided by the DEA:
- Mood swings
- Acting in an aggressive manner
- Showing hostility to others
- Arms and legs have jerking movements
- Pain is felt in muscle, joints, and bones
- The user’s nose may begin to run
- Possible depression and sleep disorders
What is Kratom’s Legal Status in the U.S.?
Used as a natural stimulant and pain killer in Asian countries for years, kratom is still encountering hurdles regarding its effectiveness and legality in the U.S… This is especially true as kratom addiction has become an issue in some scientific circles. In fact, prior to 2016, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, or DEA pushed to ban kratom in the U.S., making it a Schedule One Drug.
Fortunately for kratom enthusiasts, kratom was not listed as a Schedule One drug. However, while there is no federal ban, there are concerns regarding kratom addiction in the states. For instance, both Rhode Island and Vermont have banned casual kratom use, viewing it as a controlled substance..
Final Thoughts
While some push the hype that kratom should be banned, others fight for its acceptance. So, while some statistics state that kratom addiction is on the rise, it’s important to remember that no matter what we choose to put into our bodies, too much of a good thing can do harm. In other words, we know that sweets and junk food are fine in controlled portions. But when taken to the max, sweets and junk foods can cause much damage to our health. So, if you’re going to remove the benefits of kratom from its users, then why not ban sweets and junk foods as well? In short, no matter what your stance is, know that it has been shown to improve the health and well being of those who take the proper kratom dosage, and should be allowed to do so while under scientific study.