Can You Overdose on Kratom? Understanding the Risks and Precautions

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you or someone you know experiences adverse effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Kratom has gained a lot of attention for its potential effects on mood, energy, and discomfort management. However, while the user feedback is mostly positive, there has been a rising concern about potential kratom overdose and toxicity. 

We’d like to address those today. In this article, we’ll explore the possibility of kratom overdose, its symptoms, potential risks, and best practices for safe use.

Yes. Too much of anything can be harmful, and kratom is no exception. Some kratom strains produce mild effects, while others can have stronger, more noticeable impacts on the body. 

However, due to kratom's unique pharmacology, understanding its toxicity is complex, making it difficult to pinpoint how much kratom is too much.

Recent reports suggest that kratom-related toxicity cases are increasing:

• A study published in the Journal of Clinical Toxicology found that 1,807 kratom-related cases were reported to poison control centers between 2011 and 2017.
• The majority (two-thirds) of these cases were documented in 2016-2017, indicating a growing trend.
• 11 deaths were linked to kratom exposure, with two fatalities occurring from kratom alone.

Some common reasons for kratom overdose include:

• High doses over time leading to increased tolerance.
• Combining kratom with other substances, enhancing toxicity.
• Poor-quality or contaminated kratom products with additives.
• Misuse by new users unaware of kratom's potency.

While kratom is legal on the federal level, it remains unregulated in the U.S. Regulatory agencies like the FDA have repeatedly raised concerns over its safety, with the key concern being that some kratom products are contaminated with harmful substances, leading to unexpected reactions.

What happens if you take too much kratom? There are several warning signs to keep an eye out for when you or someone you know consumes high amounts of kratom. The most common symptoms of kratom overdose include:

If any of these symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately.

Anyone who takes high dosages of kratom is at risk of an overdose. However, some groups are more exposed to potentially severe side effects—we’re talking here about teenagers or young adults, pregnant women, and new kratom users:

First-time kratom users should be extra cautious with dosing. Taking too much too soon can shock the system and cause nausea and vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and increased heart rate. That is especially true for potent kratom strains, so steer away from those when you’re thinking about taking kratom for the first time.

Responsible consumption is key to avoiding potential risks. Kratom overdose typically occurs due to high doses, frequent use, or combining kratom with other substances. Naturally, this isn’t always the case, but mindful usage is an essential step for minimizing the risk of overdosing. Here’s how to practice it:

1. Track Your Dosage
Keeping a log of your daily kratom intake can prevent accidental overuse. This can be as simple as noting down:

• The strain and amount taken
• The time of consumption
• Any effects experienced

Monitoring your intake will help you identify patterns, adjust doses if necessary, and prevent building unnecessary kratom tolerance. 

2. Follow a Routine

Taking kratom at consistent times each day helps regulate its effects and reduces the urge to take more than necessary. Sudden increases in dosage to achieve stronger effects can lead to unwanted side effects and dependency. 

3. Purchase from Reputable Sources

Not all kratom products are created equal. Some low-quality or contaminated kratom may contain additional substances that increase the risk of toxicity. Always buy from vendors that provide third-party lab-tested, 100% natural, high-quality kratom and offer transparent information about alkaloid content.

4. Avoid Mixing Kratom with Other Substances

Mixing kratom with other substances is a huge no, as it can significantly increase overdose risks and lead to severe potential side effects. Some dangerous combinations include:

• Alcohol – mixing kratom with alcohol may amplify sedative effects, leading to dizziness, nausea, or respiratory depression.
• Prescription medications – some medications, especially opioids, benzodiazepines, or antidepressants, may interact unpredictably with kratom.
• Other stimulants or depressants – combining kratom with substances like caffeine or sedatives can either intensify side effects or mask warning signs of overdose.

The safest approach is to take kratom by itself and in moderation. However, remember that even if you follow these precautions, kratom side effects can occur. Also, if you have underlying health conditions or take medications, consult a healthcare professional before using kratom.

You suspect you or someone you know took too much kratom to cause an overdose. Here’s what to do:

Call 911 Immediately. If someone exhibits severe overdose symptoms, get emergency medical assistance.

Stay Hydrated. Overdosing on kratom often leads to vomiting and dehydration. If possible, drink small sips of water while waiting for medical help.

Prevent Injury During a Seizure. In rare cases, kratom overdose may trigger seizures. Remove sharp objects from the area and ensure the person is in a safe position.

While kratom may have potential effects—according to users—misuse can lead to serious health risks. Kratom overdose is a real and growing concern, especially among new users and those consuming contaminated or excessive amounts. 

The best way to minimize the risk? Stay informed, consume responsibly, and consult a healthcare professional if unsure about kratom use.

1. Full article: Kratom exposures reported to United States poison control centers: 2011–2017
2. A Case of Kratom Overdose in a Pediatric Patient - Wong - 2020
3. Kratom Use Among Pregnant and Lactating Individuals With Substance Use Disorder - PubMed