Kratom is often used as a “natural” alternative for pain relief, energy, and helping with opioid withdrawal symptoms. Unfortunately, plant-based doesn’t always mean risk-free. Kratom isn’t approved by the FDA for medical use, and it may be addictive. And while the effects of this supplement are still being researched, a growing number of studies show that it could impact your liver.
If you’ve been taking kratom, you’re not the only one. Still, it’s good to learn how this supplement could potentially affect your body — especially in ways that may not be so obvious at first. In this article, we’ll explore possible kratom effects on your liver, what symptoms to watch out for, and how to talk with your doctor about this supplement.
3 ways kratom may affect your liver
Although rare, chronic kratom use has been associated with liver injuries. In these cases, it typically occurs within one to eight weeks of using kratom powder or tablets regularly. However, this timeline can depend on how much you usually take and other factors. Although specific reasons for liver issues aren’t always clear and research is still ongoing, evidence suggests that it can affect you in several subtle ways, such as:
1. Cholestatic liver injury
Some case studies associate kratom use with cholestatic liver injury. This is a condition that describes a problem with the bile flow from your liver. Cholestasis can cause inflammation and affect how your small intestine breaks down your food. Long-term cholestatic liver injury can also cause bile to accumulate in your bloodstream.
2. Liver enzyme production
Kratom may also affect your liver enzymes. This organ contains a family of enzymes that help break down a variety of substances, including common medications. Some studies show that mitragynine (a primary ingredient in kratom) may either enhance or inhibit some of these liver enzymes, which could affect how those medications work in your body.
3. Heavy metal toxicity
Because kratom products aren’t regulated, they may contain harmful substances that can increase your risk of serious health problems. For example, the FDA and other researchers have identified several kratom products with elements, like lead, nickel, and arsenic, that exceeded safe levels. Long-term and/or heavy use may result in heavy metal poisoning, which could harm your liver (as well as other vital organs).
Signs of possible kratom effects on your liver
A safe, standardized dosage hasn’t been established for this supplement, which means its potential for causing adverse effects is higher. Also, combining kratom with drugs or alcohol can increase your risk for complications. If it has affected your liver, some of the warning signs you might experience include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Pruritus (itchy skin)
- Dark urine
- Abdominal pain
- Jaundice (yellow-toned eyes or skin)
It’s important to remember that these symptoms can have many causes, and not all of them may be associated with kratom use. Checking in with your doctor is the best way to make sure.
Please note: Seek immediate medical attention if you’re experiencing severe symptoms, like jaundice, confusion, or seizures after using kratom.
About kratom addiction
Along with potential harm to your liver, kratom is associated with a risk of dependence and addiction. In fact, it binds with the same receptor in your brain as other addictive opiates — the mu opioid receptor. Some people who’ve tried to stop using kratom report unpleasant, opioid-like withdrawal symptoms that can make quitting especially difficult. Depending on your dosage and other factors, these symptoms may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chills
- Mood changes
- Irritability
- Muscle and joint pain
- Runny nose
- Trouble sleeping
- Restlessness
Given these risks, it’s important to be mindful when considering this supplement.
When to talk to your doctor about kratom use
It’s a good idea to talk to a provider before starting or continuing to use this supplement. That way, they can assess your health risks and monitor you for any possible signs of liver damage or interactions with other medications. It’s especially important to take this step if you notice the symptoms listed above. Here are some tips on how to have this conversation:
- Be upfront about kratom use — Your provider will need to know how much you’re taking and when you usually take it.
- Explain why you’re taking kratom — Explaining your reasons why can help them better understand your health needs and offer safer alternatives.
- Ask about your risk — Kratom can affect people in different ways, so it’s important to know your individual risk level.
- Mention any symptoms — If you’ve noticed possible signs of kratom effects on your liver or other adverse reactions, tell your provider so they can treat you right away.
Remember that your provider is here to help, not judge. When it comes to kratom, it’s important to have all the facts. Taking the time to ask them about it — or anything else you’re taking — shows that you’re proactive about your well-being. It’s a way of taking control over your health and ensuring that you’re making informed, thoughtful decisions on how to take care of yourself.
Groups can help with opioid withdrawal
If you’re thinking about using kratom to help with opioid withdrawal or have been using it for a while, we want you to know that safer options are available. Groups provides treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD). Our evidence-based program integrates medication, group therapy, and wraparound support services to help our members reach their recovery goals.
Have questions about your treatment options? Our Recovery Support Coordinators are here to help. Call 888-858-1723 for more information. We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
