Kratom's Laxative Effect: Friend Or Foe?

Kratom, a tree native to Southeast Asia, is known to have a range of effects on the human body, including constipation. While it is not a full-fledged opioid, it contains opioid-like compounds that can lead to constipation, especially with large amounts of consumption. This side effect is similar to that of opioids, which are known to cause severe constipation that may even require hospitalization. To counter this, kratom users may turn to laxatives for relief. However, it is important to note that kratom-induced constipation can usually be prevented or managed through proper hydration, reduced dosage, and other means, without the need for laxatives.

Kratom's effect on the body

Kratom is a tree native to Southeast Asia, also known as Mitragyna speciosa. Its leaves are dried and used to make tea, or they are put into capsules and sold as a supplement. The two most active compounds found in kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which work on opioid receptors in the brain. The effects of kratom on the body vary depending on the dosage, concentration, potency, and frequency of use, as well as individual factors such as other drugs taken, medical conditions, and previous experience with the substance.

At low doses (1-5 grams), kratom acts as a stimulant, increasing energy, alertness, and heart rate. At higher doses (5-15 grams), it has effects similar to opioids and sedatives, providing pain relief, relaxation, and reduced anxiety. However, large doses of kratom can also cause serious side effects, including nausea, aggression, hallucinations, trouble breathing, and death. Long-term use of kratom has been linked to dependence and withdrawal symptoms similar to those of other opioids.

Kratom has been reported to cause constipation, which is a common side effect of opioids. Constipation caused by kratom use can be prevented by reducing the dosage and frequency of use, staying hydrated, and making dietary changes. In some cases, laxatives may be used to relieve constipation, but it is important to be cautious as laxatives can have their own side effects.

In addition to its effects on the digestive system, kratom has been associated with various adverse effects on the body. These include high blood pressure, increased heart rate, liver problems, seizures, and mental health issues such as confusion, tremors, and psychosis. There is also a risk of kratom-induced neonatal abstinence syndrome in infants born to women who used kratom during pregnancy. Furthermore, kratom may interact with other substances and medications, leading to severe adverse effects or even death.

Overall, while kratom has been traditionally used for various purposes, including pain relief and increased energy, its effects on the body are complex and not yet fully understood. More research is needed to determine the short-term and long-term health impacts of kratom use.

Kratom's adverse side effects

Kratom is a substance derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, which is native to Southeast Asia. It is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and liquid extracts, and is commonly used to manage opioid withdrawal, pain, and mental health symptoms. However, it is important to note that kratom is not approved by the FDA for any medical purposes due to a lack of research on its short- and long-term effects.

Mild Side Effects

Kratom can cause mild side effects, including nausea, drowsiness, and dizziness. These side effects are typically not severe and may be more common at lower doses.

Serious Adverse Effects

In rare cases, kratom has been associated with more serious adverse effects, including mental and neurological symptoms such as confusion, tremors, and seizures, as well as heart and lung problems like high blood pressure and slow breathing. It is worth noting that a very small number of deaths have been linked to kratom products, often involving other drugs or contaminants.

Gastrointestinal Issues

One of the most well-known side effects of kratom is constipation, especially at higher doses. This is due to its opioid-like activity, particularly in the red vein kratom strain, which has stronger sedative effects. Constipation can be a bothersome and even dangerous side effect, but it can be managed through various methods, such as reducing kratom dosage, staying hydrated, and using laxatives.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is limited research on the effects of kratom during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, some reports suggest that kratom use during pregnancy may be associated with neonatal abstinence syndrome, where newborns exhibit withdrawal symptoms such as jitteriness and irritability. Additionally, kratom is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth during pregnancy, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms in babies after birth.

Drug Interactions

Kratom may interact with other substances and medications. For example, it may increase the risk of seizures in people taking modafinil and affect how quickly the body breaks down certain medications metabolized by the liver. It is crucial to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking kratom to avoid potentially dangerous interactions.

Addiction and Withdrawal

Kratom has the potential for misuse and addiction, and some individuals have reported signs of compulsive use and withdrawal symptoms upon stopping. Safe and effective medications are available to manage opioid withdrawal and should be considered instead of kratom, which has not been proven safe or effective for this purpose.

The safety and regulation of kratom

Safety:

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, and its leaves have been used traditionally for hundreds of years as a natural home remedy. In recent times, kratom has gained popularity for its perceived "healing powers" and its similarity to opioids, often being used to self-treat conditions like pain, coughing, diarrhoea, anxiety, depression, and opioid withdrawal.

However, kratom is not without risks. The two main active compounds in kratom, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing opioid-like effects. This includes the potential for abuse, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms similar to opioids. Kratom can also cause serious side effects, including nausea, constipation, dizziness, liver problems, seizures, psychosis, and even death in rare cases. The risk of adverse effects increases when kratom is combined with other drugs or prescription medications, leading to dangerous drug interactions.

Regulation:

Kratom is currently legal but not regulated in most U.S. states. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved kratom for any medical use and considers it a new dietary ingredient with inadequate information to ensure its safety. The FDA has concluded that kratom is not lawfully marketed as a drug product, dietary supplement, or food additive in the U.S.

The American Kratom Association (AKA) has criticised the FDA's approach, arguing that the lack of regulation creates a complex and unsafe marketplace for consumers. The AKA has called for the FDA to take steps to protect consumers, address illegal therapeutic claims, and regulate concentrated kratom products.

In summary, while kratom may offer potential benefits, particularly in pain management and opioid withdrawal, it also carries significant risks. The lack of regulation in the U.S. further complicates the issue, leaving consumers without guarantees of quality and safety. It is essential for individuals to carefully consider the potential dangers and consult with a healthcare professional before using kratom.

Mixing kratom with other substances

Kratom is known to cause constipation, especially in large amounts. However, there are a few ways to work around this side effect. Firstly, staying hydrated is crucial when consuming kratom, as it is a highly astringent diuretic. It is recommended to drink at least a gallon of water per day when using kratom. Additionally, reducing the dosage and frequency of kratom consumption can help alleviate constipation. For those who use kratom for pain management, switching to a white strain may provide some relief from constipation, as it tends to be the most stimulating and least constipating. In more severe cases, laxatives can be used, such as bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium husk, or osmotic laxatives like magnesium citrate.

Kratom is known to interact with other substances, and it is important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects. Here are some important considerations when mixing kratom with other substances:

• Alcohol: Mixing kratom with alcohol can be dangerous due to the depressant effects of both substances. The combination can lead to irregular heart rate, weakness, confusion, and an increased risk of alcohol poisoning or overdose. The side effects of both kratom and alcohol are amplified when they are mixed, and the risk of severe side effects and accidental overdose is multiplied. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid mixing kratom and alcohol.
• Opioids: Kratom has opioid-like effects and can interact with opioid receptors in the body. Mixing kratom with opioids can increase the risk of addiction and overdose. It is important to be cautious when combining kratom with prescription opioids or other substances that have similar effects.
• Stimulants: Kratom can act as a stimulant at lower doses, and mixing it with other stimulants, such as caffeine, can intensify its effects. This may lead to increased heart rate, energy, and alertness. While this combination may not be as dangerous as mixing kratom with depressants, it is still important to use caution and be aware of the potential side effects.
• Other Substances: Kratom may also interact with other substances, including over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. The lack of research on kratom makes it difficult to fully understand all its potential interactions. Therefore, it is generally recommended to consult a healthcare professional before mixing kratom with any other substance.

Overall, it is important to approach mixing kratom with other substances with caution. The lack of comprehensive research on kratom means that many of its potential interactions are still unknown. To ensure safety, it is always best to consult a medical professional before combining kratom with any other substance.

Kratom overdose and withdrawal

Kratom is a tree native to Southeast Asia, also known as Mitragyna speciosa. Its leaves are dried and used to make tea or put into capsules as a supplement. It is also smoked like tobacco. Kratom contains opioid-like and stimulant properties and is used for pain relief, depression, and opioid addiction.

Kratom overdose

Kratom overdose can be life-threatening. A small number of deaths have been linked to kratom products, and nearly all cases involved other drugs or contaminants. Kratom toxicity can be easily missed or mistaken for opioid overdose in the emergency department. It is crucial for emergency medicine practitioners to be aware of kratom overdose and its presentation and treatment.

Kratom overdose symptoms include unresponsiveness, apnea, cyanosis, and constricted pupils. Due to its opioid-like properties, patients who overdose on kratom respond to naloxone administration. Urine toxicology may be negative for opioids or any other substance use.

Kratom overdose can cause rebound hypoxia 12-24 hours after ingestion. Clinicians must be aware of this risk when deciding on patient disposition. Patients must be observed during this high-risk period, and if they leave against medical advice, they should be given naloxone and clear instructions.

Kratom withdrawal

Kratom can be addictive, and prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms have been reported, including muscle and bone pain, jerky movements of the limbs, restlessness, irritability, nervousness, and anxiety. These symptoms tend to last about a week.

Kratom withdrawal symptoms can also include diarrhoea, which is a common withdrawal symptom associated with opiates. Kratom use can cause constipation, and withdrawal may result in the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions