Kratom may look harmless on the counter of a gas station, but its addictive grip can be stronger than heroin. Nashville Addiction Clinic is here to help Tennesseans break free with safe, same-day Suboxone telemedicine.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom is a plant derived from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally, people in countries like Thailand and Malaysia chewed the leaves or brewed them into tea for mild stimulating effects.

In the United States, Kratom is marketed as a “natural supplement” or “herbal remedy” and sold in powder, capsule, or liquid form. Because it’s legal in many areas, including Tennessee, Kratom is found in gas stations, convenience stores, and vape shops right next to energy drinks and CBD products.

But unlike most items on those shelves, Kratom is highly addictive and dangerous.

Street Names for Kratom

Kratom is often disguised under friendly, misleading names that make it sound harmless. Some of the most common street or product names include:

  • Biak-Biak
  • Kakuam
  • Ketum
  • Thang
  • Herbal Speedball
  • Kratom Shots (liquid form sold in gas stations)
  • Mitragyna Powder

These names are often used in packaging to appeal to people looking for a legal “high” or a natural energy booster. In reality, Kratom’s effects come from its powerful alkaloids, which act much like prescription opioids or heroin.

Why Kratom Is Known as the “Gas Station Drug”

Kratom has earned the nickname “the gas station drug” because it’s often sold openly in gas stations, truck stops, and convenience stores. Packaged in flashy bottles and labeled as “herbal” or “all natural,” it seems safe to casual buyers.

But appearances are deceptive:

  • No safety oversight: Unlike medications, Kratom isn’t regulated by the FDA. This means doses vary wildly, and contamination with other substances is common.
  • False sense of security: Buying something at the same counter as coffee or aspirin creates the illusion that it’s harmless.
  • Wide accessibility: Teens, young adults, and people trying to avoid prescription opioids can easily purchase it without question.

Because of this accessibility, Kratom addiction has been rising steadily in Tennessee and across the U.S.

Why Kratom Is Addictive

Kratom’s addictive nature comes from its active ingredients, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). These compounds attach to the same opioid receptors in the brain as heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone.

  • 7-OH is especially dangerous: Even in small amounts, 7-hydroxymitragynine produces opioid-like euphoria and sedation.
  • Tolerance builds quickly: Over time, people need more Kratom to feel the same effects, leading to dependency.
  • Withdrawal is severe: When someone tries to quit, withdrawal symptoms set in—insomnia, muscle pain, anxiety, sweating, depression, and powerful cravings.

Kratom vs. Heroin: A Hidden Danger

Many people mistakenly believe that Kratom is safer than street opioids because it’s sold legally. But research and patient experiences show that Kratom can be even harder to quit than heroin in some cases.

  • Accessibility: Heroin users often have to seek out dealers, while Kratom is available in plain sight at local shops.
  • Daily use patterns: Because it’s cheap and easy to buy, people use Kratom multiple times a day, deepening physical dependence.
  • Withdrawal intensity: Patients describe Kratom withdrawal as “longer-lasting” and in some cases more painful than heroin withdrawal.

Signs of Kratom & 7-OH Addiction

If you or someone you love is struggling with Kratom use, you may notice:

  • Needing to take Kratom several times per day to avoid withdrawal
  • Feeling anxious, restless, or irritable when doses are missed
  • Spending large amounts of money on Kratom products
  • Hiding usage from family or friends
  • Experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms like insomnia, sweating, chills, or stomach upset

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom & 7-OH Addiction

❓ Is Kratom legal in Tennessee?

Yes. As of now, Kratom is legal in Tennessee for adults 21 and older, which is why it is often sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and convenience stores. However, legal does not mean safe. Kratom contains powerful opioid-like compounds that can quickly lead to addiction and withdrawal.

❓ What is 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)?

7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, is one of the most potent alkaloids found in Kratom. It binds to the brain’s opioid receptors, producing effects similar to heroin, fentanyl, and prescription painkillers. 7-OH is largely responsible for Kratom’s addictive potential.

❓ Why is Kratom called the “gas station drug”?

Kratom is nicknamed the “gas station drug” because it’s widely sold in gas stations and convenience stores across Tennessee. Its placement alongside energy drinks and CBD products gives the false impression that it’s safe. In reality, it can be more addictive than heroin for some people.

❓ What are the withdrawal symptoms of Kratom?

Kratom withdrawal can be severe and long-lasting. Common symptoms include:

  • Insomnia and restlessness
  • Muscle aches and chills
  • Anxiety, irritability, or depression
  • Intense cravings
  • Nausea and sweating

These symptoms are very similar to opioid withdrawal and can make it nearly impossible to quit without medical help.

❓ How does Suboxone help people addicted to Kratom?

Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) helps by easing withdrawal symptoms, reducing cravings, and stabilizing brain chemistry. This allows patients to focus on recovery instead of the constant cycle of dosing and withdrawal. At Nashville Addiction Clinic, Suboxone is prescribed safely via telemedicine, often on the same day you reach out.

❓ Can I really start treatment the same day?

Yes. Nashville Addiction Clinic offers same-day Suboxone appointments for most patients. Whether you have TennCare (Medicaid), commercial insurance, or need a self-pay option, you can begin recovery quickly without long wait times.

❓ Is Kratom more addictive than heroin?

For some patients, yes. While heroin produces a faster “high,” Kratom can create a deep, daily dependence due to its easy availability and frequent use. Many people report that Kratom withdrawal feels longer and harder to manage than heroin withdrawal.

Nashville Addiction Clinic’s Approach

At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we know how difficult Kratom and 7-OH withdrawal can be. Our providers offer confidential, judgment-free treatment using Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone)—the gold standard in opioid addiction care.

What Our Program Offers:

  • Same-Day Appointments: Start treatment quickly, often the same day you call.
  • Telemedicine Convenience: See a licensed provider by video from anywhere in Tennessee.
  • Insurance & Self-Pay: We accept TennCare (Medicaid), most commercial insurance, and offer affordable self-pay plans.
  • Accreditation: Our clinic is Joint Commission-accredited, ensuring the highest quality of addiction care.

How Suboxone Helps with Kratom Addiction

Suboxone works by:

  • Reducing cravings: Buprenorphine binds to opioid receptors, easing the urge to use Kratom or 7-OH.
  • Preventing withdrawal symptoms: It stabilizes brain chemistry and allows patients to function without constant dosing.
  • Blocking misuse: Naloxone helps deter misuse while keeping treatment safe.

Breaking the Illusion of Safety

The biggest danger of Kratom is its false reputation as harmless. Just because it’s sold in a gas station doesn’t mean it’s safe. Cigarettes, alcohol, and lottery tickets are also sold at gas stations—and all can ruin lives.

Kratom belongs in the same category: addictive, risky, and life-altering if not treated.

Get Help for Kratom and 7-OH Addiction in Tennessee

If Kratom has taken control of your life, you don’t have to fight it alone. Nashville Addiction Clinic offers compassionate, accessible treatment that works. Our providers are ready to help you take the first step toward lasting recovery today.

Freedom from Kratom and 7-OH is possible—and it starts here.