Alcohol and kratom are widely available throughout the United States. People over the age of 18 can buy kratom legally in retail stores and smoke shops in 44 states, and alcohol is legal for purchase after the age of 21.

While alcohol and kratom are available legally throughout the country, these products have risks. Combining them increases the risk of complications even more.

This article will explore the dangers of mixing alcohol and kratom. You will learn:

• The effects and risks of kratom
• The effects and risks of alcohol
• The dangers of mixing alcohol and kratom
• Where to find effective SUD treatment

If you or a loved one uses kratom or alcohol and needs help to quit, you are not alone. Contact the Moving Mountains Recovery specialists for information about our addiction treatment programs. You can also learn about our recovery support programs, ask questions, or schedule an appointment.

Kratom: Understanding the Effects and Risks

Kratom is a natural product derived from the leaves of the Southeast Asian Mitragyna speciosa tree.[1] Kratom manufacturers market it as a natural dietary supplement. Advertisers promote kratom as a treatment for:[2]

• Muscle cramps
• Menstrual cramps
• Diarrhea
• Appetite-suppressant
• Anxiety relief

People use it in several ways, including:

• Taking pills
• Swallowing a liquid
• Chewing kratom leaves
• Brewing the leaves into a tea

Researchers believe kratom binds to opioid receptors in the same way opioid drugs do. In low doses, people may experience stimulant effects, including more energy and alertness.

In higher doses, people may experience euphoria. Euphoria is an intense rush of pleasure, well-being, and warmth. They may have feelings of contentment, happiness, and an absence of pain. In very high doses, kratom can produce sedative effects, including relaxation and drowsiness.

People may believe that kratom is safe because it comes from a plant. However, kratom use can cause unwanted or dangerous side effects.

Kratom’s effects can begin within a few minutes after a person ingests it. Common side effects of kratom include:[1]

• Dry mouth
• Chills
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Dizziness
• Muscle pain
• Slow or shallow breathing
• Seizures
• Coma
• Death

Long-term or heavy use can lead to lasting effects, including:

• Urinary problems
• Weight loss
• Depression
• Constipation
• Dependence and withdrawal[3]

While researchers are still exploring the long-term effects of kratom, some studies have indicated that there are serious risks associated with using this product. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned about the abuse and addiction potential of kratom.[2]

Alcohol: The Effects and Risks

Studies show that the majority of adults in the United States consume alcohol at least occasionally. Alcohol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. The short-term depressant effects of alcohol include:

• Impaired coordination
• Lowered inhibitions
• Slurred speech
• Slowed reaction times
• Relaxation

Drinking heavily or regularly can lead to tolerance, meaning people need to drink even more to get the effects they want. This can increase the risk of an overdose. It also increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and being the victim of a crime.

Regular or heavy alcohol abuse can turn into physical dependence and addiction. When people stop drinking, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, including:[4]

• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Tremors
• Excessive sweating
• Headache
• Cravings
• Seizures

These and other withdrawal symptoms can lead to relapse. It can be very challenging for people to stop drinking without professional help. 

The Dangers of Mixing Kratom and Alcohol

People who use kratom in high doses may experience a sedative effect. Alcohol has a similar depressant effect. People may wonder if combining kratom and alcohol may increase their relaxation. 

However, there are significant risks associated with mixing alcohol and kratom. Here is an overview of the dangers of combining kratom and alcohol.

Excessive sedation

People may want to combine alcohol and kratom to enhance the sedative effects of both substances. However, combining them can lead to excessive sedation, including:[5]

• Depressed breathing
• Dizziness
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of coordination

Shallow breathing can result in a dangerous lack of oxygen in the brain. This may result in coma or death.

Dehydration

Kratom and alcohol are diuretics, meaning they remove fluids from the body more quickly. Using these substances at the same time can lead to dangerous dehydration. 

Liver, heart, and kidney damage

Kratom and alcohol can put a strain on your heart, kidneys, and liver. Using these substances together can increase the risk of damage to these vital organs. 

Addiction

It is crucial to explore why you want to mix kratom and alcohol. Are you looking for pain relief or attempting to relieve mental health symptoms? Do you struggle to function without the effects of addictive substances?

If you rely on alcohol or other substances to function or can’t quit on your own, you may require professional treatment. A medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program can help you identify and address the complex roots of substance abuse. You will learn the skills you need to work toward a healthier, sober future. 

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol or kratom abuse, help is available. Contact the Moving Mountains Recovery specialists to explore our holistic treatment and recovery support programs.