Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia whose leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Locals have historically chewed kratom leaves or brewed them into tea for their stimulant effects at low doses, or pain relief and sedation at higher doses. In the modern U.S. context, kratom is marketed as a supplement for everything from opioid withdrawal to increased focus and weight loss.
However, despite being sold in gas stations and wellness stores, kratom isn’t as safe as it might appear. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about kratom’s health risks, and both the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have expressed concern over its abuse potential, toxicity, and link to life-threatening events.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
The effects of kratom are largely attributed to two active alkaloids: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds bind to opioid receptors in the brain, meaning kratom acts in a way that is pharmacologically similar to traditional opioids. While it doesn’t always produce the same euphoria or sedation as drugs like fentanyl, kratom can still create dependence, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms with repeated use.
At low doses, kratom tends to produce stimulant effects, such as increased energy and alertness. But at high doses, it behaves more like an opioid, producing sedation and pain relief. This dual action makes kratom unpredictable and heightens the risk of overdose, especially when combined with other drugs of abuse, including benzodiazepines or alcohol.
Can You Overdose on Kratom?
Yes, you can overdose on kratom. While kratom-related fatalities are less common than those from heroin or synthetic opioids like fentanyl, increasing evidence shows that kratom overdose is real and potentially life-threatening—especially when mixed with other substances or consumed in excessive quantities.
Symptoms of a kratom overdose can include:
- Extremely low blood pressure
- Slowed heart rate or respiratory depression
- Confusion or seizures
- Nausea, vomiting, or severe agitation
- Coma or death (in severe cases)
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, kratom-related deaths often involve co-use with other substances, making toxicology analysis complex. Still, case reports have documented deaths in which kratom products were identified as the main or contributing cause, especially when purchased in unregulated forms.
Kratom and the Risk of Dependency
Because kratom acts on opioid receptors, long-term kratom use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction—just like traditional opioids. Users who start out consuming kratom for mood enhancement, productivity, or pain relief may find themselves needing much kratom just to feel normal. And when they try to stop, withdrawal symptoms like irritability, fatigue, muscle aches, and mood swings can set in.
Kratom withdrawal may not always be as intense as opioid withdrawal, but it can still be severe enough to disrupt daily functioning. In some cases, users report persistent insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, and emotional instability long after quitting. These experiences can trap individuals in a cycle of substance abuse and reinforce psychological dependence.
Why Overdose Can Be Overlooked
One reason kratom-related dangers are often minimized is due to how kratom is marketed—as a natural, legal alternative to opioids or prescription medications. But “natural” doesn’t mean “safe.” In fact, the FDA has warned consumers that kratom is not approved for any medical use and carries significant public health risks.
Because kratom is unregulated, its potency can vary widely between brands and batches. Adulterants or other drugs like fentanyl may be added to certain black-market kratom products, increasing the risk of toxicity. And since kratom is not currently scheduled as a controlled substance, many healthcare providers are unfamiliar with how to recognize kratom overdose or treat its complications.
What the Data Says
Data collected by poison control centers, emergency departments, and public health organizations show a steady rise in kratom-related adverse events over the past decade. A CDC report from 2019 noted over 90 deaths in which kratom was identified in post-mortem toxicology. While many involved other substances, the use of kratom was a common factor.
The DEA has listed kratom as a “drug of concern,” citing the growing number of overdose cases and lack of clinical oversight. Although efforts to schedule kratom federally have faced pushback from advocacy groups, many experts argue that the lack of regulation leaves users vulnerable to misinformation and preventable harm.
Seeking Treatment for Kratom Addiction
For individuals experiencing kratom addiction or who have suffered a kratom overdose, professional addiction treatment is highly recommended. Withdrawal and detox can be physically and emotionally challenging, especially for those with a history of trauma or co-occurring mental health conditions.
Treatment may include:
- Medical detox in a supervised setting
- Evaluation by trained clinicians and toxicology monitoring
- Individual and group therapy focused on recovery and coping skills
- Support for managing cravings and avoiding relapse
- Treatment of co-occurring disorders such as depression or anxiety
- Transition into inpatient or outpatient rehab as needed
A structured treatment center can also help address long-term recovery goals, reduce stigma, and create a roadmap for lasting recovery from substance use disorder.
What to Do If You Suspect a Kratom Overdose
If you believe someone is experiencing a kratom overdose, call 911 immediately. Symptoms may mimic those of an opioid overdose, and rapid medical response can save a life. Emergency responders may administer supportive care, oxygen, or naloxone, though its effectiveness with kratom is debated and not always predictable.
After the emergency passes, it’s essential to explore follow-up care, especially for individuals who have experienced multiple adverse effects from kratom use. Overdose is often a wake-up call that deeper healing and intervention are needed.
Getting Help at San Diego Wellness Center
At San Diego Wellness Center, we understand that struggles with kratom use, substance abuse, or opioid withdrawal can feel confusing and overwhelming. Whether you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one, our licensed professionals offer compassionate, medically informed care—including detox, inpatient, and outpatient options tailored to your specific needs.
We offer comprehensive assessments, personalized treatment programs, and evidence-based approaches to treat both kratom addiction and any underlying mental health disorders. With a strong focus on healing, education, and community, we’re here to support every step of your addiction recovery journey.
If you’re wondering whether kratom is putting your health or safety at risk, don’t wait. Call today to speak with a team member and get connected to the care you deserve.
