There is no definitive answer for how Kratom affects blood pressure, but research indicates that some people have lower blood pressure when taking the herb while others have higher blood pressure. It all depends on the individual, dosage and strain used, as well as safe usage. Hypertension is defined as a blood pressure reading over 140/90 mmHg. This condition is hereditary, and most people are unaware they have high blood pressure unless they undergo a medical checkup for a non-related issue.
Table of Contents
High blood pressure
If you suffer from hypertension, you may be wondering how kratom can help you manage it. Some medical researchers have even filed a US patent for a kratom-based blood pressure treatment. Kratom is an a-2 receptor agonist, and its effects may depend on your health and blood-thinning medications. Blood vessels constrict when stimulated, so bali kratom leaf has a similar effect in small doses.
In a recent study, researchers from the National Institutes of Health examined the effect of kratom on the body’s response to a large dose of the supplement. The study subject experienced high blood pressure after taking a heavy dose of kratom, but all his vital signs returned to normal after five days. The researchers speculated that kratom may alter the rate at which the liver breaks down drugs and affect the body’s absorption of medications.
Tachycardia
The most common form of hypertension is mild, meaning that the person may not have any physical symptoms. However, if someone is experiencing tachycardia, the effects of kratom may be profound. Even an extra dose of Kratom may cause an increased blood pressure. While an increased blood pressure is not dangerous, it may also lead to a cardiac event. Tachycardia is an abnormally fast heart rate that can lead to heart attack or stroke.
While this is a positive sign, the substance is still illegal in the U.S. The Food and Drug Administration has recently issued a proposal to classify kratom as a Schedule 1 controlled substance, which would have put it in the same category as marijuana, LSD, and heroin. Fortunately, public protests prompted the DEA to abandon this plan.
Pain relief
The DEA, the federal agency that regulates drugs, has proposed classifying kratom as a Schedule 1 controlled substance. This would put it in the same category as drugs like marijuana, LSD, and heroin. However, after public outcry, the DEA has reversed its decision. While kratom’s effects may vary from person to person, it can be helpful to people with hypertension or other conditions.
The drug’s effects on the brain are similar to those of opioids. Because it interacts with opioid receptors, kratom can be used as an alternative to opioids and other pain medications. Many states have legalized it, making it a viable option for pain management without the stigma of other narcotics. However, it’s important to remember that kratom is not a prescription drug.
Opioid addiction
How kratom helps people with hypertensive disorders and opioid addiction remains a mystery. Its natural history is unclear, and the long-term effects of kratom use are still under investigation. However, it may be indicative of a broader interest in alternative medicine and natural treatments. Additionally, some people perceive formal drug treatment as reserved for those who abuse illegal substances, so they shun physician contact. In either case, self-treatment with kratom may not prevent problematic opioid use.
While it is possible to reduce the effects of opioid withdrawal with kratom, some research suggests that it may cause more problems than it solves. Long-term oxycodone users may develop dependence and experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, including cravings and physical signs. In some cases, these symptoms persist for days or even weeks, even after the last dose. In such cases, it is better to consult a doctor to ensure that the medication will be effective.
Cardiotoxicity
The question of how kratom helps people with hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and toxicity is not uncommon. In fact, many studies have documented that the drug can significantly reduce blood pressure and heart rate, and this may be the reason it is becoming increasingly popular. A recent case study involves a 44-year-old man with a history of hypertension, cardiotoxicity, and lipidemia. He was also physically active, performing daily exercises, and had previously visited the emergency room for ventricular fibrillation. His family history was consistent with energy supplements, and his urine toxicology screen revealed ethanol. He also had a prolonged QTc interval, and a chest x-ray showed pulmonary vascular congestion.
While animal studies are crucial for determining the toxicity of kratom, few have been conducted on humans. There have been a few case reports and two in vitro studies of the drug’s effects on heart rhythm. In one of these studies, mitragynine and its analogs were shown to be cardiotoxic. This is an important finding for researchers studying kratom.
Support groups
There are many support groups for people with hypertension, including pulmonary hypertension (PH) patient support groups. These groups help people living with the disease find resources, get answers to common questions, and just have a sympathetic ear. PHSANZ, the peak body in Australia for pulmonary hypertension, has several groups you can join. They also offer helpful tips from people who have been through it themselves. These groups are open to both patients and healthcare professionals.