AMA #9: Kratom Risks, Does Infrared Sauna Work & Journaling Benefits

TL;DR

Kratom is a substance derived from the mitragyna speciosa tree, known for its mild stimulant and analgesic effects. It acts as an opioid and has potential for addiction, but some individuals have successfully used it to taper off more potent opioids.

Transcript

ANDREW HUBERMAN: Welcome to the Huberman Lab podcast, where we discuss science and science-based tools for everyday life. [MUSIC PLAYING] I'm Andrew Huberman, and I'm a professor of neurobiology and ophthalmology at Stanford School of Medicine. Today is an Ask Me Anything episode or AMA. This is part of our premium subscriber channel. Our premium s... Read More

Key Insights

• 🌲 Kratom is an opioid substance derived from the mitragyna speciosa tree, known for its stimulant and analgesic effects.
• 😶 It acts on the mu-opioid receptor and can induce mild euphoria, sedation, and pain relief.
• ✋ Kratom can be addictive and habit-forming, especially at higher dosages.
• ☄️ Some individuals have successfully used kratom to taper off more potent opioids, although the goal should always be to completely come off all opioids.
• 🖤 Lack of regulation for kratom supplements adds to the potential risks and safety concerns.
• ❓ Kratom can suppress respiration, especially when combined with other opioids or alcohol.
• ❓ Death directly from kratom is rare, but it has occurred, often due to respiratory failure.
• ❓ The addictive potential of kratom is similar to other opioids, and its effects can vary depending on individual responses to opioids.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the short-term effects of taking kratom?

At low dosages, kratom has a mild stimulant effect, providing a boost in energy and mood. It can also enhance focus and sociability.

Q: What are the long-term effects of taking kratom?

Kratom can have analgesic effects at higher dosages, providing pain relief and acting as a sedative. However, it is also potentially addictive and habit-forming.

Q: Can kratom be used to wean off other opioids?

Some individuals have successfully used kratom to taper off more potent opioids like morphine and hydrocodone. However, it is crucial to progressively lower the kratom dosage and eventually come off it completely.

Q: Is kratom safer than other opioids?

While kratom has a lower potency than drugs like morphine and hydrocodone, it still acts on the opioid system and carries addictive potential. The lack of regulation for kratom supplements adds to the safety concerns.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Kratom is a controversial substance that has both short-term stimulant effects and long-term analgesic and sedative effects.

• It acts as an opioid in the body and has been used by some individuals to wean themselves off more potent opioids.

• However, kratom itself can be addictive and habit-forming when taken at higher dosages, leading to withdrawal symptoms and other negative effects.