Kratom Side Effects: What Tennessee Residents Need to Know

Kratom side effects can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening risks, and many Tennesseans struggling with opioid use may not realize how dangerous this drug can be. At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we’ve seen firsthand how kratom dependence often leads to opioid addiction and worsens withdrawal symptoms—but we’ve also seen thousands of people recover through safe, effective treatment.

What Is Kratom and Why Is It Dangerous?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is an herbal substance derived from a Southeast Asian tree. Some people use it to manage pain, anxiety, or even opioid withdrawal. But despite being marketed as “natural,” kratom can be addictive and harmful. Kratom/7-OH is commonly referred to as “the gas station drug.”

The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use, and the DEA lists it as a “drug of concern.” According to SAMHSA, kratom has been linked to dependency, withdrawal, and in some cases, overdose deaths (FDA). The FDA has also stated they intend to schedule Kratom/7-OH as a controlled medication in the near future.

Common Kratom Side Effects

Many people in Tennessee first try kratom believing it’s safer than opioids, only to find themselves dealing with troubling symptoms. The most common kratom side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
  
• Sweating and itching
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Constipation
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Frequent urination
  
• Anxiety or irritability
  
• Restlessness or insomnia
  

Severe Kratom Side Effects

• Seizures
  
• Hallucinations
  
• Psychosis
  
• Liver damage
  
• Heart complications
  
• Respiratory depression (especially when combined with opioids or alcohol)
  

In cities like Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Clarksville, we’ve seen patients report both physical and psychological side effects that mirror opioid withdrawal.

Kratom Addiction and Withdrawal

Just like opioids, kratom can cause dependence. People often use more over time to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Kratom withdrawal may include:

• Muscle aches and body pains
  
• Insomnia and restless legs
  
• Depression and anxiety
  
• Intense cravings
  
• Sweating and chills
  

These symptoms can be overwhelming, especially if you are already struggling with opioid use.

Why Kratom Can Lead to Opioid Use

Many of our patients started with kratom after trying to quit opioids on their own. Unfortunately, kratom often acts as a gateway back into stronger opioids like oxycodone, heroin, or fentanyl. This increases the risk of overdose and death—something we’ve seen far too often in Tennessee.

How Nashville Addiction Clinic Can Help

At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we’ve helped more than 1,000 Tennesseans transition away from dangerous drugs—including kratom—through safe and effective telemedicine Suboxone treatment.

Why Choose Us?

• Same-day Suboxone prescriptions (sent to your pharmacy or delivered overnight)
  
• 100% virtual—no clinic visits required
  
• Accredited by The Joint Commission
  
• Over 250 five-star patient reviews
• Counselors with master’s degrees in addiction counseling
  
• Created by people in active recovery who understand the struggle
  
• Pioneers of TeleMAT—Telemedicine Medication-Assisted Treatment
  
• Serving patients in East, Middle, and West Tennessee since 2019
  

With TeleMAT, you can attend appointments securely from your phone using the Spruce Health mobile app.

Insurance and Affordable Care

We accept TennCare Medicaid, commercial insurance, and affordable self-pay options.

• Register with commercial insurance
• Register with TennCare Medicaid
• Register as a self-pay patient
• See insurance and pricing
• Apply for our Sliding-Scale Program

Returning patients can restart treatment here.

FAQs About Kratom Side Effects

Can you overdose on kratom?

Yes. The FDA warns that kratom has been linked to seizures, liver failure, and even death, especially when combined with opioids or alcohol.

Is kratom safer than opioids?

No. Kratom carries its own set of risks and can lead to addiction. Many people find themselves dependent on both kratom and opioids.

Can Suboxone help with kratom withdrawal?

Yes. Suboxone is highly effective for managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings from kratom, opioids, and other addictive substances.

How quickly can I get treatment?

At Nashville Addiction Clinic, you can start treatment today. Suboxone is prescribed on your first appointment and sent directly to your pharmacy.

Take the First Step Today

If you or a loved one are struggling with kratom side effects or opioid addiction, you don’t have to do it alone. Nashville Addiction Clinic has helped thousands of Tennesseans rebuild their lives with compassion, respect, and effective medical care.

📞 Call or text us at (615) 927-7802 or send a secure message through the Spruce Health app to begin your recovery today.

Meet our team and see why so many patients choose us for lasting recovery.

Related Kratom 7-OH Articles

• Learn More About Kratom 7-OH Abuse and Treatments Available
• Kratom Withdrawal: Safe, Virtual Recovery Options in Tennessee
• Does Suboxone Help Kratom 7-OH Withdrawal?
• Kratom Use Disorder: Understanding Treatment Options in Tennessee
• Kratom Abuse: Safe Virtual Treatment in Tennessee

External Resources

• FDA – Kratom Warnings
• DEA – Drugs of Concern
• SAMHSA – Treatment Locator
• National Institute on Drug Abuse
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention | CDC.gov
• National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare
• Locate a Peer Recovery Support Specialist
• Tennessee Department of Health Drug Overdose Dashboard