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How Hard is Kratom on the Liver? - Damage, Causes & Effects

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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Aman Priya Khanna
Written by Rajath R Prabhu, last updated on 29 November 2022| min read
How Hard is Kratom on the Liver? - Damage, Causes & Effects

Quick Summary

  • Overview:
  • Kratom is a tropical tree used for centuries in traditional medicine
  • Recently, it has gained popularity as a recreational drug and has been used to self-treat various conditions, including pain, anxiety, and depression
  • However, there is little scientific research on kratom and its effects on the body
  • One area of concern is its potential effect on the liver
  • This article will explore what is known about kratom and liver damage, including the possible causes and effects:
  • Kratom is a tropical tree used for centuries in traditional medicine
  • Recently, it has gained popularity as a recreational drug and has been used to self-treat various conditions
  • There is little scientific research on kratom and its effects on the body
  • One area of concern is its potential effect on the liver

Kratom is a tropical tree used for centuries in traditional medicine. Recently, it has gained popularity as a recreational drug and has been used to self-treat various conditions, including pain, anxiety, and depression. However, people are sceptical about how hard kratom is on the liver and how much kratom can cause liver damage.

Despite its popularity, there is little scientific research on kratom and its effects on the body. One area of concern is its potential effect on the liver. This article will explore what is known about kratom and liver damage, including the possible causes and effects.

What is Kratom? What is Kratom Medication?

  1. Kratom (Mitragyna speciose) is an evergreen tree that has been a traditional medicine in Southeast Asia for centuries. Kratom leaves are typically chewed, smoked, or made into tea. Kratom extract is also available in capsules and tablets. 
  2. The active compounds in kratom are mitragynine and 7-α-hydroxy mitragynine, which interact with your brain's opioid receptors to generate both stimulant and sedative effects. 
  3. It is currently not illegal and is easy to order on the internet. 

At low doses, Kratom produces stimulant effects, including

  1. Increased alertness
  2. Energy
  3. Sociability 

At very high doses, kratom can also cause

  1. Sedation
  2. Anxiety
  3. Hallucinations
  4. Delusions
  5. Psychotic symptoms
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What are the Effects of Kratom Overdose?

A kratom overdose can have several different effects, depending on how much it was consumed and what other substances were present in the person's system. Below mentioned are some of the side effects caused by kratom overdose:

  1. Nausea
  2. Vomiting
  3. Constipation
  4. Sleepiness
  5. Dizziness
  6. Agitation
  7. High blood pressure
  8. Decreased appetite
  9. Respiratory disorder
  10. Depression
  11. Heart Failure

How does Kratom Affect the Liver?

Kratom has been linked to liver toxicity, though the exact mechanism underlying this is still unknown. But is kratom safe for the liver? 

  1. It is believed that kratom’s active compounds bind to opioid receptors in the liver, which can cause a range of side effects, including Nausea, Vomiting, Dark Urine, Abdominal Pain and jaundice. 
  2. Additionally, the effect of kratom on the liver is associated with liver damage, including Acute Liver Failure.
  3. While much research still needs to be done on kratom’s effects on the liver, it’s important to understand the potential risks associated with using this substance. If you are considering taking kratom, speak to your healthcare provider and monitor your liver function regularly.
  4. It is essential to visit a doctor immediately if you encounter any symptoms related to liver damage. Liver damage can be severe and even life-threatening.

What does Research Say about Kratom?

Kratom has been studied extensively over the past several decades, and several studies have been conducted to determine its effects and potential therapeutic benefits. 

  1. While research is still in the early stages, many experts believe that kratom could be beneficial for treating symptoms associated with chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
  2. One study published in 2014 found that kratom could potentially help reduce symptoms of opioid withdrawal. In this study, participants reported reduced physical and psychological distress levels after taking the drug.
  3. In addition to its potential therapeutic benefits, kratom has also been studied for its potential as a recreational drug. While more research is needed in this area, some studies have suggested that kratom cause liver damage, psychotic symptoms, and even death.
  4. Given the potential risks associated with kratom, it's essential to speak to your doctor before using it, especially if you're taking any other medications or have a medical condition. It's also important to use kratom responsibly and follow dosing instructions carefully for the best results. 

What are the Safe Ways to Use Kratom?

When used responsibly, kratom can be safe and effective in managing pain, boosting energy levels, and improving mood. However, some potential risks are associated with kratom use, particularly in the liver.

Kratom is generally considered safe when taken in small doses. Some of the safest ways to use kratom include: 

  1. Start with a low dose (2 to 3 grams) and gradually increase the dosage if needed. Consult the doctor when increasing the dosage.
  2. Stick to plain, unadulterated kratom strains. Mixing with other substances may lead to an increased risk of side effects. 
  3. Don't take kratom on an empty stomach as it can cause nausea and vomiting. 
  4. Avoid alcohol or other drugs when taking kratom, as the combination may cause dangerous interactions. 

Takeaway

Overall, kratom appears to be relatively safe for most people. But does kratom damage your liver? Some evidence suggests that it may be hard on the liver, but this is mostly in people who are already taking other medications known to be hard on the liver. If you have any concerns about kratom's effects on your liver, consult your doctor or another healthcare professional.

Whether you’re simply looking to enquire about your liver health or planning a general health check-up, we’ve got you covered. At HexaHealth, we help you find the right solution for all your medical requirements. Get in touch with a HexaHealth expert today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Different drugs can cause varying degrees of liver damage. Some of the most damaging drugs to the liver include alcohol, acetaminophen, and certain antibiotics.

There is limited scientific evidence on the health effects of kratom, as it is a relatively new dietary supplement. However, some potential side effects have been reported, including:

  1. Nausea
  2. Vomiting
  3. Diarrhea
  4. Constipation
  5. Dizziness
  6. Drowsiness
  7. Increased urination
  8. Loss of appetite

Some common signs and symptoms indicative of liver damage include 

  1. Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
  2. Dark urine
  3. Light stools
  4. Abdominal pain or discomfort
  5. Fatigue
  6. Nausea or vomiting. 

If you experience these symptoms, it is essential to consult a medical professional as soon as possible to determine if they indicate a more serious underlying condition.

There is no clear evidence that kratom causes hepatitis. Some case reports have suggested a possible link, but it is not clear if kratom was the direct cause of liver damage in these cases. More research is needed to ascertain the potential risks of kratom use.

There is no definite answer, as the effects of kratom vary from person to person. Some people report that kratom affects their liver and kidneys, while others say it causes gastrointestinal issues. There is no scientific evidence to back any specific claims about which organs are affected by kratom.

Yes, kratom does pass through the liver. It's primarily metabolized in the liver, and its pain-relieving effects are due to alkaloid compounds like mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine.

Some people may use kratom for its stimulant effects to help them boost their energy levels or focus, while others may use it for its sedative properties to help them relax and wind down. Ultimately, it depends on you to decide how they want to use kratom and what benefits they hope to experience.

It is known that kratom can cause liver damage in high doses, and chronic use may lead to kidney damage. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about its potential effects on your liver or kidneys.

Kratom interacts with a variety of medications, including but not limited to:

  1. Opioid painkillers
  2. Antidepressants
  3. Stimulants
  4. Sedatives

There is no definitive answer, as every individual experiences kratom differently. Some people report that kratom causes memory loss, while others find that it improves their focus and concentration. Individual factors such as brain chemistry likely play a role in how kratom affects memory. If you are concerned about memory loss, it is best to speak with your healthcare provider.

There is no scientific evidence that states kratom can cause brain lesions. However, as with any substance, it is possible to overdose on kratom, leading to serious health complications, including seizures and coma. It is essential to know the risks linked with kratom use and seek medical help if you experience an adverse reaction.

The active compounds in kratom, mitragynine and 7-α-hydroxy mitragynine interact with the brain's opioid receptors to produce effects similar to those of morphine. On low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, providing increased energy and alertness. At higher doses, it produces sedative effects and can lead to coma or death.

The research on kratom's effects on dopamine levels is still inconclusive. Some studies suggest that kratom may increase dopamine levels, while other studies have found no significant impact.

There is currently no scientific evidence suggesting that kratom can cause permanent psychosis. However, it is essential to note that kratom use has been linked to some cases of psychosis and other mental health problems, so it is possible that kratom could cause permanent psychosis in rare cases. If you are worried about your mental well-being after using kratom, speak with a medical professional.

Kratom affects the brain and nervous system in a variety of ways, including by binding to opioid receptors. It is possible that kratom can mess with your nervous system. This can lead to potential side effects like sedation, euphoria, and pain relief. Additionally, kratom use has been linked with cognitive impairments and psychiatric disorders like anxiety and depression. Therefore, if you are taking kratom, you must be aware of the potential risks and side effects.

Some people report that kratom helps to alleviate their depressive symptoms, while others find that it does not have any effect or may even worsen their condition. It is important to remember that everyone responds to kratom differently, so what works for one may not work in a similar way for another. If you are considering using kratom to treat your depression, it is important to speak with a medical professional first to ensure it is safe for you and will not interact with any other medications you are taking.

Last Updated on: 29 November 2022

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational and learning purposes only. It doesn't cover every medical condition and might not be relevant to your personal situation. This information isn't medical advice, isn't meant for diagnosing any condition, and shouldn't replace talking to a certified medical or healthcare professional.

Reviewer

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

MBBS, DNB General Surgery, Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery, FIAGES

12 Years Experience

Dr Aman Priya Khanna is a well-known General Surgeon, Proctologist and Bariatric Surgeon currently associated with HealthFort Clinic, Health First Multispecialty Clinic in Delhi. He has 12 years of experience in General Surgery and worke...View More

Author

Rajath R Prabhu

Rajath R Prabhu

MSc. Clinical Research I PG Diploma in Public Health Services Management

3 Years Experience

His work in medical content writing and proofreading is noteworthy. He has also contributed immensely to public health research and has authored four scientific manuscripts in international journals. He was assoc...View More

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