Can Mitragyna speciosa (kratom) cause psychiatric side effects?

Yes, kratom can cause psychiatric side effects. Kratom, derived from the Mitragyna speciosa plant, contains compounds that interact with opioid receptors in the brain and can lead to various mental health effects. Users may experience anxiety, irritability, mood swings, depression, and in some cases, psychosis or hallucinations. Long-term or heavy use increases the risk of these psychiatric effects. Kratom can also cause physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms that include psychological distress such as severe anxiety, insomnia, and emotional changes. The psychiatric risks appear dose-dependent, with higher doses (typically above 5-15 grams) more likely to cause adverse effects. These effects occur because kratom's active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, affect neurotransmitter systems including serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood and cognition. People with pre-existing mental health conditions may be particularly vulnerable to kratom's psychiatric effects. Anyone experiencing psychiatric symptoms while using kratom should seek medical attention and consider discontinuing use under appropriate supervision.