Kratom Vs. Oxycodone | Differences & Similarities

Kratom may cause a stronger high than oxycodone. The use of oxycodone can cause sedation, drowsiness, and impairment, while the use of kratom can cause these effects as well as increased energy, heart rate, alertness, and psychosis.

Kratom is a substance derived from the mitragyna speciosa plant, which is native to Southeast Asia. The prevalence of kratom as a recreational drug, dietary supplement, or in patients self-medicating for opioid addiction has increased over the past two decades. 

Kratom is currently not approved for medical use in the United States.

Oxycodone is a prescription opioid sold under the name OxyContin. Both oxycodone and kratom have a high potential for drug abuse. Any use of kratom in the United States is likely a form of substance abuse.

What A Kratom High Feels Like

A kratom high can cause either opioid-like effects or stimulant-like effects. In low doses, kratom increases energy and alertness, while in higher doses, kratom causes relaxation, pain relief, and impairment.

It can be possible to get high on kratom in both low and high doses of the drug. Kratom has also been compared to psychoactive drugs, and reports of psychosis and hallucinations after taking kratom products have occurred.

Serious side effects of kratom, such as respiratory depression, high blood pressure, tremors, and seizures, have been reported.

What An Oxycodone High Feels Like

Oxycodone binds to opioid receptors, which can have analgesic (pain relief) properties. High amounts of oxycodone in the body can cause a high, leading to side effects such as:

• drowsiness
• sedation
• constipation
• impairment
• respiratory depression

Unlike the high caused by kratom leaves and other kratom products, drug use of oxycodone does not cause stimulant effects.

Risks Of Getting High On Kratom Or Oxycodone

Getting high on either kratom and oxycodone may cause withdrawal symptoms in the long term.

Opioid withdrawal symptoms are well-understood by medical professionals. Long-term oxycodone use can cause physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit. Withdrawal symptoms of oxycodone may include cravings, anxiety, vomiting, and stomach pain.

Kratom withdrawal is less understood by the medical field. 

Some studies suggest 7-hydroxymitragynine, an active ingredient in kratom, can have similar addictive properties as other drugs of abuse. More research may be needed to determine how kratom affects the body in the long term.

Treatment Options For Controlled Substance Abuse

Treatment options for the adverse effects of kratom are not as established as those caused by opioids. Opiate addiction is treated by medications such as buprenorphine and naloxone, while the effects of kratom withdrawal and abuse may require more innovative treatment options.

For information on our inpatient and outpatient substance use disorder treatment options, please contact us today.