Description
Free Sample Kratom
Best way to find kratom near me it to use our free FINDER SERVICE by calling 1-800-MEDIGAP
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree (Mitragyna speciosa) native to Southeast Asia, particularly countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The leaves of the kratom tree contain various alkaloids, the most notable of which are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds interact with opioid receptors in the brain to produce sedative, pleasure-inducing, and pain-reducing effects. However, they don’t belong to the opioid class of drugs.
The leaves are traditionally chewed or brewed into a tea, but in Western countries, they are more commonly ingested in powdered form, either directly or in capsules, or sometimes even as extracts or tinctures.
Effects:
- Low doses: Stimulatory effects, increased alertness, and sociability.
- Moderate to high doses: Sedative effects, similar to opioids, such as pain relief and euphoria.
Uses:
In traditional medicine, it has been used for various purposes, including pain relief, energy-boosting, and to treat digestive ailments. Some people also use kratom as an alternative to prescription opioids for pain management or for opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Regulation and Safety:
Kratom is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. It has been linked to several adverse effects, including nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, and in severe cases, seizures, respiratory depression, and death. The substance has a potential for abuse and addiction.
Legal Status:
The legal status of kratom varies by country and even by state in the United States. Some states have banned or regulated the use of kratom, citing concerns about its potential for abuse and health risks.
Medical Perspective:
Given that kratom is not regulated by health authorities in most countries, it is not standardized or subject to quality controls, making it difficult to determine its safety and efficacy. If you are considering using kratom for a medical reason, consult with a healthcare provider for advice tailored to your specific needs.
Before making a decision about using kratom, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you’re already taking medications or have existing health conditions.
How does Kratom differ from electrical residence therapy for pain?
Kratom and electrical resonance therapy (also commonly known as electrical stimulation therapies like TENS – Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) are fundamentally different approaches to managing pain. Here’s a breakdown at the post-doctoral healthcare level:
Mechanism of Action:
- Kratom: The active compounds in kratom, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the central nervous system. This interaction can result in analgesic effects, mimicking some of the actions of traditional opioid medications but without belonging to the opioid class.
- Electrical Resonance Therapy: In modalities like TENS, electrical impulses are applied to nerve endings via electrodes placed on the skin. The basic mechanism is rooted in the “gate control theory” of pain, suggesting that non-painful input (like the electrical impulses) closes the nerve “gates” to painful input, preventing pain sensation from traveling to the central nervous system.
Regulation and Safety:
- Kratom: Not FDA-approved, with concerns about its safety, quality control, and potential for abuse. Various adverse effects have been reported.
- Electrical Resonance Therapy: Generally considered safe when administered under medical supervision. FDA-approved TENS units are available for pain management.
Duration and Onset:
- Kratom: The effects can be relatively quick but are generally short-lived, often requiring repeated dosing. Duration and onset depend on various factors including dose, form, and individual metabolism.
- Electrical Resonance Therapy: Immediate but temporary relief while the device is in use. Some people report lingering benefits.
Potential for Abuse:
- Kratom: Has a potential for abuse and dependency, similar to other substances that act on opioid receptors.
- Electrical Resonance Therapy: Low to no potential for abuse.
Utility:
- Kratom: Primarily used for pain relief but also used off-label for conditions like anxiety and opioid withdrawal.
- Electrical Resonance Therapy: Mainly used for pain conditions, including chronic pain, postoperative pain, and labor pain, among others.
Contraindications:
- Kratom: Contraindicated in people with certain pre-existing conditions, including liver disease, and may interact with other medications.
- Electrical Resonance Therapy: Generally contraindicated in people with pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices, and not advisable on certain parts of the body, like the front of the neck or eyes.
Given these significant differences, the choice between kratom and electrical resonance therapy would depend on multiple factors including the type and severity of pain, other medical conditions, and the advice of a healthcare provider. Always consult a healthcare provider for a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Side Effects of Kratom
The use of kratom can lead to a range of side effects, some of which can be severe. The compound’s interaction with opioid receptors in the brain means it shares some adverse effects with opioids, although it is not classified as an opioid itself. Here is an overview of some of the known side effects, detailed at a post-doctoral healthcare level:
Acute Side Effects:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and constipation are common, especially in higher doses.
- Neurological Effects: Dizziness, drowsiness, and sedation can occur. Higher doses can lead to impaired motor skills.
- Cardiovascular Effects: Tachycardia (increased heart rate) and hypertension (elevated blood pressure) have been reported.
- Respiratory Depression: While less potent than traditional opioids, high doses of kratom can lead to decreased respiratory function.
- Psychiatric Effects: Some users have reported heightened anxiety, agitation, and even hallucinations.
- Dependency and Withdrawal: Regular use can lead to dependency and a withdrawal syndrome similar to that of opioids, featuring symptoms like irritability, muscle aches, and insomnia.
Chronic Side Effects:
- Hepatotoxicity: There are documented cases of liver injury associated with kratom use, usually occurring after the use of the compound for several weeks.
- Endocrine Effects: The compound can suppress the endocrine system, leading to issues such as hypothyroidism.
- Hyperpigmentation: Chronic use has been associated with a darkening of the skin, particularly on the cheeks.
- Immunosuppression: While not fully understood, some reports suggest that chronic use could potentially lead to reduced immune function.
- Renal Effects: Prolonged use might affect renal function, although definitive evidence is still lacking.
Interactions:
- Drug-Drug Interactions: Kratom has the potential to interact with other medications, including other opioids, sedatives, and certain types of medications for heart conditions, leading to additive effects or altered pharmacokinetics.
- Drug-Disease Interactions: Individuals with pre-existing liver or kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, or psychiatric conditions may be at higher risk for adverse effects.
Given the variability in kratom preparations and the lack of regulation, the risk for contamination with harmful substances is also a concern. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate risk assessment if you’re considering using kratom, particularly if you have existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.