At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our Georgia personal injury attorneys know that parents throughout the state are becoming increasingly concerned about kratom use, as the highly addictive psychoactive drug tends to be particularly popular among young people.
Unfortunately, they have reason to worry. Sold openly in convenience stores and gas stations, kratom is already responsible for over 100 deaths and counting in the United States.
Its sudden popularity, and overwhelming dangers, leave many parents, teachers, and other adults wondering how to tell if someone is using kratom, or what the signs of kratom abuse or addiction might be.
The Partnership to End Addiction has helped our kratom law firm provide answers.
What are the Most Common Signs Someone is Using Kratom?
The signs of whether someone is using kratom largely depend on the dose the person takes.
If someone takes a small dose of kratom, they will appear to have taken a stimulant — somewhat like taking cocaine — which creates a sudden burst of energy that can result in:
- Anxiety.
- Becoming more alert, social, and talkative.
- Decreased appetite.
- Experiencing a higher-than-normal sex drive.
- Impaired coordination.
- Performing physical labor or activity they would not have otherwise been capable of.
If someone takes a higher dose of kratom, they will likely appear very happy and even euphoric — somewhat like taking a narcotic or sedative — which can result in:
- Constipation.
- Itching.
- Nausea.
- Tiredness.
The effects of larger doses of kratom are often compared to what happens when someone takes morphine or heroin, but less powerful.
What are the Signs of Kratom Addiction?
Many of the signs associated with kratom addiction are like those seen with other drugs.
Signs someone may be potentially addicted to kratom include:
- Becoming defensive, secretive, or evasive when asked about its use.
- Distancing themselves from friends and family.
- Finding new social groups, often who are also users of drugs or substances like kratom.
- Turning their time, energy, money, and overall focus toward obtaining more of the substance.
- Withdrawing from school or work, causing performance in these areas to decline.
It is important to note, if you believe your child, friend, or another family member is physically dependent on kratom use, suddenly stopping, or even using a smaller dose, may result in withdrawal symptoms.
As with most drugs and substances, withdrawal symptoms of kratom can vary from mild to severe and may include:
- Irritability.
- Sweating.
- High blood pressure.
- Cold-like symptoms.
- Nausea.
- Pain.
- Insomnia.
- Extreme cravings.
Kratom withdrawal symptoms are much like opioid withdrawal symptoms and can be very uncomfortable and even dangerous. If you suspect someone close to you is using kratom, it is important to help them find the appropriate addiction treatment options for their unique needs.
Can I Pursue a Legal Claim Against a Kratom Manufacturer in Georgia?
Ashby Thelen Lowry, in partnership with the Wetherington Law Firm, is bringing legal claims on behalf of the family of a young man who was killed by kratom against every person, special interest group, and entity involved in the import and selling of dangerous kratom products, so our clients can seek justice.
Our kratom lawsuit attorneys in Georgia accept all cases on a contingency basis. This means that you and your family do not pay anything unless we win. If you have had a serious adverse health event caused by kratom, send us a message, or complete our information gathering form to get started.