The term “kratom” pertains to the tree’s leaves that grow in Southeast Asia’s tropical regions. This unusual plant, which is associated with the coffee plant, is utilized as a pain reliever because it functions comparably to morphine. It has recently become popular in the US and other Western countries for recreational use.
Although the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued warnings about the substance’s addictive properties as well as potential dangerous side effects, there are currently no federal limitations on the consumption of kratom because of how recent its appearance is. Many individuals have experienced the kratom benefits which is why being aware of the possible overdose is vital.
Kratom Overdose: Is It Possible?
Regardless of the drug’s form, frequency, or dosage, users should be aware of any potential adverse effects because they can be harmful, addictive, or even fatal. It’s challenging to tell how much kratom is excessive because there are no known figures for the dosage required to overdose. Kratom overdose is more common in people who use it more frequently, particularly if they also use alcohol and other substances.
Common Signs of Kratom Overdose
Kratom may be considered harmless by its supporters, but just like many other medications, it comes with a number of hazards and negative effects when used, including the possibility of an overdose. Kratom overdose signs may include:
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Dry Mouth
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
- Appetite loss/Anorexia
- Liver Toxicity
- Itching
- Confusion
- Seizure
- Sweating
- Increased Urination
Once you notice these signs, you should immediately seek kratom overdose treatment.
Treatment for Kratom Overdose
The best method to avoid kratom overdose if you overuse Kratom is to quit using it first, then get therapy. When it concerns drug treatment, there are several options available, so you can select one that suits your needs.
- Inpatient Therapy: During the course of your program, you must reside at the care facility. It is a sort of intensive therapy that combines family therapy, relapse prevention classes, individual counseling, group sessions, and a mixture of all. These courses usually last between 30 and 90 days.
- Outpatient Therapy: Treatment that is received outside of a hospital setting is known as outpatient treatment. This type of care can range in intensity. You may be able to enroll in an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or a partial hospitalization program (PHP), depending on your circumstances (IOP). While you continue to live at home, a PHP program entails treatment in a center for 4 to 8 hours per day, five days per week. An IOP requires less time, with therapy taking place for one to two hours per day, two days per week.
Because there has been little research on the substance, practitioners typically rely on tried-and-true, evidence-based pharmacological therapies.
How to Handle a Kratom Overdose
The warning indications of a kratom overdose may not be as noticeable or evident as those of an alcohol, benzodiazepine, or narcotic overdose. Overdosing on the medicine, however, is a real possibility and can be quite harmful. Try to prevent the individual from consuming any additional medicines if you think they may be overdosing on Kratom, and dial 911 right away.
Other actions you can take include remaining composed and attempting to soothe the overdosing individual in order to protect them from further injury. Then, if necessary, proceed with the following actions:
To verify that the individual is breathing, check their airway. Additionally, you can examine their breathing and pulse. If you are certified to do so, start performing CPR if they aren’t breathing. If the person is asleep but still breathing, roll them onto their side and bend their top leg over their bottom leg to place them in the recovery position. Then you should turn their heads to the side.
Your top priority when someone is suffering a seizure is to keep them from becoming hurt. You can accomplish this by assisting them to lie down in a secure location away from hazards like sharp objects, supporting their heads, and turning them on their side. Be sure to stick by the person being grabbed until assistance arrives.
It might be challenging to determine whether someone has overdosed, but if you believe they require medical attention, you should contact 911 right away.
The Effects of Kratom to Our Body
The effects of kratom on our bodies vary depending on the amount you consume. It’s why individuals who are using kratom need to find the right dosage for the specific purpose they use kratom for. For instance, if you take kratom at a lower dose, you will experience a stimulant effect.
You will become energetic and active. Kratom consumers also notice they become talkative when they consume kratom in lower doses. So, if your aim is to have more energy to be productive throughout the day, you should take kratom in a lower dose.
Meanwhile, kratom in a higher dose can provide you with a calming effect. If you are experiencing insomnia, you can take kratom at a higher dose. It will act as a sedative and help you feel sleepy. Moreover, some individuals also use kratom products to lose weight. Kratom has the effect of suppressing your appetite, which leads to weight loss.
Other kratom enthusiasts use the product to help them relieve tension. For example, if you are experiencing tension due to an injury, drinking kratom can help alleviate its symptoms, making your life better and making it easier for you to go through the healing process.
Use Kratom With Caution
There are many benefits kratom can provide. Kratom has already helped a lot of individuals and even animals who are suffering from various health conditions. However, the risk of being addicted and, worse, being overdosed is still present.
That’s why it’s best that you take kratom with caution. Seek professional or expert advice before you jump into the decision of incorporating kratom into your lifestyle. Remember that there are do’s and don’ts that you need to follow and avoid when it comes to kratom consumption. So take heed.