Can You Get Addicted to Kratom? Understanding the Risks

If you’re in Tennessee and searching for ways to overcome opioid addiction, you might have come across kratom as a potential alternative. While some view it as a natural remedy, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved. At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we specialize in virtual Suboxone treatment, providing a safer and more effective path to recovery.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds that can have stimulant or sedative effects, depending on the dose. In recent years, kratom has gained popularity in the U.S. as a self-treatment for opioid withdrawal and chronic pain. However, its use comes with significant risks.

Can You Get Addicted to Kratom?

Yes, kratom can be addictive. Regular use can lead to dependence, characterized by tolerance (needing more to achieve the same effect) and withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance. These symptoms can include anxiety, irritability, fatigue, and cravings (Johns Hopkins University).

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised concerns about kratom’s safety, warning that it may expose users to risks of addiction, abuse, and dependence (U.S. Food and Drug Administration).

Risks of Kratom Use

While kratom is often marketed as a natural alternative to opioids, its use can lead to serious health issues:

• Addiction and Dependence: Regular use can lead to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.
  
• Overdose Risk: High doses can cause sedation and respiratory depression.
  
• Health Complications: Prolonged use has been associated with weight loss, insomnia, and liver damage.
  
• Unregulated Products: Many kratom products are sold without quality control, leading to potential contamination and inconsistent potency.
  

Withdrawal Symptoms of Kratom

When someone stops using kratom after regular use, they may experience withdrawal symptoms similar to those of opioids. These can include:

• Anxiety and irritability
  
• Fatigue and low energy
  
• Muscle aches and joint pain
  
• Sleep disturbances
  
• Cravings for kratom
  

These symptoms can make it challenging to quit kratom without professional help (American Addiction Centers).

Treatment Options for Kratom Addiction

If you’re struggling with kratom addiction, it’s essential to seek professional treatment. At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we offer virtual Suboxone treatment, a proven method for managing opioid withdrawal and cravings.

Benefits of Our Virtual Suboxone Program

• Convenience: Access treatment from the comfort of your home.
  
• Accessibility: No need for transportation; we serve all of Tennessee.
  
• Immediate Support: Suboxone can be prescribed on the same day as your first appointment.
  
• Comprehensive Care: Includes counseling and support from a team of clinicians passionate about helping you recover.
  

Why Choose Nashville Addiction Clinic?

With over six years of experience and more than 1,000 patients treated across Tennessee, Nashville Addiction Clinic is a trusted provider of addiction treatment. We were the first clinic in Tennessee to receive a virtual medical license for treating addiction using telemedicine (U.S. Food and Drug Administration).

Our clinic is accredited by The Joint Commission and boasts over 250 five-star patient reviews on Google. Our team includes counselors with master’s degrees who provide compassionate, non-judgmental care.

How to Get Started

Getting started with our virtual Suboxone treatment is easy:

• Register for Commercial Health Insurance: Register here
• Register for TennCare Medicaid: Register here
• Register for Self-Pay: Register here
• View Insurance and Pricing: View here

You can also call or text us at (615) 927-7802 or message us securely on the Spruce Health mobile app.

Related Articles

• Signs of Kratom Addiction: When to Seek Help in Tennessee
• Kratom Withdrawal: Safe, Virtual Recovery Options in Tennessee
• Is Kratom Addictive? What Tennessee Residents Need to Know

External Resources

• DEA.gov – Opioid addiction-related articles
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention | CDC.gov
• Tennessee Department of Health Drug Overdose Dashboard
• National Institute on Drug Abuse
• National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare
• DEA.gov Announces Intent to Schedule Kratom as an Opioid
• Find a Peer Recovery Support Specialist

If you’re ready to take the first step toward recovery, Nashville Addiction Clinic is here to help. Our virtual Suboxone treatment program offers a convenient and effective solution for overcoming kratom and opioid addiction. Contact us today to learn more and begin your journey to a healthier, drug-free life.