Maybe you’ve seen kratom trending online or mentioned on podcasts, and now you’re wondering what it really is—and whether your loved one might be using it. If you think a deeper issue could be at play and that kratom may be the cause, reach out to St. Joseph Institute right away. In the meantime, this article can help you understand kratom, its effects, and the next steps for managing it.
What’s Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree from Southeast Asia, and its leaves can be used in teas, powders, and capsules. It’s part of the coffee family, which might explain why small amounts can feel energizing, while larger amounts may feel more relaxing or heavy. You may hear it referred to as ketum, biak-biak, or thang.
Harvard Health explains that people have been using kratom for hundreds of years to manage pain, ease coughing, and even get through withdrawal from opioids. Here in the U.S., it’s become popular recently as people look for natural options to manage pain or poor moods. However, researchers still have many questions about its safety and how it actually works.
Here are some safety notes from Harvard Health:
- Kratom products aren’t consistently regulated or labeled, so you may need to do extra research before consuming them.
- Some versions of the drug have been recalled due to contamination concerns.
- While not federally controlled, the DEA lists it as a drug of concern.
What Are Kratom’s Effects?
People who use kratom describe both energizing and sedating effects depending on the amount. According to Yamhill County Public Health in Oregon, small doses might trigger energy, alertness, or extroverted behavior, while larger doses can lead to drowsiness or make pain easier to manage.
Short-term effects to watch out for:
- Nausea, vomiting, dizziness
- Itching, sweating, dry mouth
- Constipation or loss of appetite
Long-term effects to be aware of:
- Weight loss, darkened skin, or insomnia
- Liver problems or tremors
- Hallucinations or psychosis in long-term, heavy users
Who Typically Uses Kratom?
You might be surprised who typically turns to kratom—even though it’s not limited to one type of person. Researchers explain that anyone looking to manage pain, anxiety, or withdrawal symptoms, and even to get a little energy boost or more focus, could be drawn to it.
Here are some Kratom trends that researchers have noticed:
- Some people talk about it online like it’s a wellness or natural supplement.
- Younger professionals and working adults looking for more energy or stress relief might be the most likely to use it.
- Use may be more common in suburban areas or communities hit hardest by prescription opioid issues.
- Online discussions and podcasts may be helping to normalize kratom for curious newcomers. If you’re loved one listens to podcasts or spends a lot of time online, they may have learned about it there.
Does Kratom Show Up As An Opioid?
Here’s where kratom can get confusing. It does act on the same receptors as opioids, but standard drug tests don’t usually check for it. Researchers note that while kratom may feel opioid-like, most urine screens won’t flag it directly.
However, scientists at the University of Virginia discovered that kratom can sometimes cause false positives for methadone markers on certain lab tests. That means someone who only used kratom could appear to have used methadone, even when follow-up testing proves otherwise.
So if a loved one’s test results seem off, it’s worth asking the doctor or lab for confirmation
before jumping to conclusions.
Is Kratom Addictive?
Research shows that kratom can be habit-forming for some people, especially with frequent or heavy use. Around 12% of users in one study actually showed signs of dependence. Some of those people may even need professional help, similar to residential opioid treatment in Pennsylvania, while others experience something closer to a strong caffeine habit—tricky to quit but not life-threatening.
Here are some dependency signs to watch out for:
- You need more kratom to feel the same effects
- You keep using it even when you mean to stop
- You notice poor sleep, stomach issues, or mood changes when you try to cut back
- It begins affecting relationships or responsibilities
It’s important to remember that not everyone develops these struggles, but knowing the signs helps you step in early.
Can Kratom Use Develop Into A Disorder?
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, kratom use disorder can look similar to other substance use disorders—especially when someone builds tolerance or experiences cravings. But treatment exists, and if kratom use overlaps with opioid use, or any other substance use disorder (SUD), medications like buprenorphine or methadone may help stabilize the detox process.
If kratom is the only substance being used, treatment may focus on tapering, symptom relief, and counseling. The goal at St. Joseph Institute isn’t ever punishment—it’s helping you or your loved one feel balanced again. A care team can personalize treatment, whether that’s outpatient support in Wexford or residential care in Port Matilda.
Find Support For Substance Use Disorder in Port Matilda
Kratom use can sound scary online, but knowledge can help you keep calm and learn what you’re dealing with. Using small amounts of kratom occasionally might not be dangerous, but frequent use can sometimes get complicated. If you’re unsure how to help your loved one, contact us at St. Joseph Institute in Port Matilda. Answers can start there.
