The Dangers of Mixing Kratom and Alcohol

Most people in America engage in alcohol use sometimes. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), 78.5% of people aged 12 or older in the United States have consumed alcohol at some point in their lives.

Alcohol use is so commonplace that you might not think twice before you mix it with other substances. Unfortunately, dangerous interactions can occur when alcohol is combined with other drugs. For example, you should never mix kratom and alcohol.

While kratom is federally legal, it can be dangerous to abuse. Mixing it with alcohol can lead to several risks, including exacerbated mental health symptoms, impaired coordination, addiction, liver damage, and even life-threatening overdoses.

If you are addicted to the combination of alcohol and kratom, PAX Memphis is here to help. We can offer the tools and support you need to achieve long-lasting sobriety.

What is Kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree that is native to southeast Asia. People consume its leaves to experience mind-altering effects.

The strain and dose of kratom you use can change the effects you experience. For example, kratom leaves produce stimulant effects in low doses and depressant effects in high doses.

The possible effects of kratom include:

• Increased alertness
• Chattiness
• Increased energy
• Drowsiness and sedation
• A rush of euphoria
• Nausea and vomiting
• Itching
• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Increased heart rate and high blood pressure

Kratom abuse can also lead to dangerous effects, including psychosis and seizures. Additionally, long-term use of kratom can lead to addiction. If you suddenly stop using it, you will experience withdrawal symptoms.

You should always seek help for kratom addiction. Drug rehab programs can help you overcome withdrawal and address the root causes of your substance abuse.

Can You Mix Kratom and Alcohol?

Even though both alcohol and kratom are legal in the United States, that does not mean they are safe to mix. Combining kratom and alcohol can lead to dangerous effects, including a risk of overdose. Both substances can act as central nervous system depressants, so mixing them can lead to respiratory depression.

If your loved one is struggling with alcohol and kratom abuse, contact PAX Memphis. We can help you get connected with a drug rehab center that suits your specific needs. Addiction treatment is necessary to prevent you from developing the long-term health risks associated with combining alcohol and kratom.

What are the Dangers of Mixing Kratom and Alcohol?

Mixing alcohol and kratom increases the risk of experiencing many health concerns.

The risks of combining kratom and alcohol include:

Worsened Mental Health

Both kratom and alcohol are known to affect your mental health. While short-term use of these substances might numb your emotions, abusing them can lead to worsened symptoms over time. For example, mixing kratom and alcohol can worsen depression, anxiety, and mood disorders like bipolar disorder.

Combining kratom and alcohol can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and suicidal ideations. Additionally, you could develop substance-induced psychosis as a result of kratom.

Impaired Coordination and Judgment

Both alcohol and kratom act as central nervous system depressants. When you combine them, the side effects will increase. As a result, mixing kratom and alcohol can lead to dangerously impaired coordination and judgment.

Having this level of impaired coordination can cause you to be at an increased risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, you might make choices you would never make while sober. For example, your judgment could become so impaired that you engage in risky behaviors like unsafe sex or drunk driving.

Addiction

Both kratom and alcohol are addictive substances. When combined, your chances of becoming dependent on them increase.

The signs of a substance use disorder include:

• Being unable to control how much kratom and alcohol you use
• Wanting to quit but being unsuccessful
• Experiencing strong urges or cravings to abuse kratom and alcohol
• Getting into risky situations when you abuse alcohol and kratom
• Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities and social isolation
• Failing to meet responsibilities at home, school, or work
• Needing to increase the dose of kratom and alcohol you use to experience the desired effect
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop using kratom and alcohol

Liver Damage

Both kratom and alcohol are metabolized by the liver. When you combine these substances, your liver might have a hard time metabolizing them properly. Over time, this can lead to liver damage or worsened existing liver conditions.

Symptoms of liver damage include:

• Jaundice
• Abdominal pain
• Easy bruising
• Dark urine
• Light stools
• Belly pain and swelling
• Itchy skin
• Exhaustion
• Nausea and vomiting

Overdose

Lastly, combining alcohol and kratom can lead to life-threatening overdoses. Signs of an overdose might include shallow or stopped breathing, confusion, unconsciousness, and even death.

If you believe someone you love is experiencing a kratom and alcohol overdose, contact 911 immediately. Prompt medical intervention could prevent them from experiencing long-term health effects or death.

Find Help for Alcohol and Kratom Abuse

If you or a loved one suffers from kratom and alcohol abuse, it’s time to seek help. Both substances are addictive and can lead to significant long-term health risks. Drug addiction treatment centers will offer medically reviewed services to help you overcome kratom and alcohol addiction.

Contact PAX Memphis today to learn more about your treatment options.