Can You Take Kratom While On Suboxone
Basilio Jarvis
Can You Take Kratom While on Suboxone?
Kratom and Suboxone are both substances that can help people with opioid addiction. However, they have different effects and interactions, and mixing them may not be safe or effective. In this article, we will explore what Kratom and Suboxone are, how they work, and what happens when you take them together.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a natural plant that grows in Southeast Asia. It has been used for centuries as a traditional medicine, stimulant, and pain reliever. Kratom leaves can be chewed, brewed as tea, or processed into capsules, powders, or extracts. Kratom contains over 40 alkaloids, which are chemical compounds that act on the brain and body. Some of these alkaloids have opioid-like effects, meaning they can reduce pain, produce euphoria, and relieve withdrawal symptoms from other opioids. However, unlike opioids, Kratom does not cause respiratory depression or overdose deaths.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a prescription medication that is used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). It contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it binds to the same receptors as opioids but with less intensity. This helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without causing a full-blown high. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, meaning it blocks the effects of opioids if they are taken at the same time. This prevents people from abusing Suboxone by injecting it or snorting it.
Can You Take Kratom While on Suboxone?
The short answer is no. Taking Kratom while on Suboxone can have negative consequences for your health and recovery. Here are some of the reasons why you should avoid this combination:
- Kratom may not work. Since Suboxone is a partial opioid agonist, it occupies the same receptors as Kratom. This means that Kratom may not be able to produce its effects, or they may be diminished or delayed. You may end up taking more Kratom to feel something, which can increase the risk of side effects and dependence.
- Kratom may cause withdrawal. If you take Kratom while on Suboxone, you may trigger the naloxone component of Suboxone. Naloxone can precipitate withdrawal symptoms if there are other opioids in your system. Since Kratom has opioid-like effects, it may be considered as an opioid by naloxone. This can result in unpleasant and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, anxiety, agitation, muscle aches, and insomnia.
- Kratom may interfere with your treatment. If you are taking Suboxone as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program for OUD, you should follow your doctor's instructions and avoid using other substances that can affect your recovery. Taking Kratom while on Suboxone can undermine your treatment goals and outcomes. It can also make it harder to monitor your progress and adjust your dosage accordingly.
Conclusion
Kratom and Suboxone are both substances that can help people with opioid addiction. However, they have different effects and interactions, and mixing them may not be safe or effective. Taking Kratom while on Suboxone can reduce the efficacy of both substances, cause withdrawal symptoms, and interfere with your treatment. Therefore, you should avoid this combination and consult your doctor before using any substance that can affect your recovery.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek professional help if you have questions or concerns about your health or substance use.
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