Plugging Kratom: Effects And Dangers Of Anal Kratom Use

Kratom is a tropical tree from Southeast Asia that has gained popularity as a recreational substance in the United States. The leaves contain powerful psychoactive compounds that people seek out in various forms including powders, extracts, and pills. While kratom isn’t currently illegal at the federal level, it’s often sold with labels claiming it’s “not for human consumption,” creating a legal gray area that allows retailers to market it despite safety concerns.

People use kratom in several ways, from chewing fresh leaves to brewing dried leaves into tea, but some have turned to more dangerous methods like rectal administration, also known as “plugging.” This method of abuse has become increasingly popular among those seeking stronger effects from the drug. Since kratom access is limited in the U.S., many users obtain it from Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, where it’s commonly known by street names like Biak, Ketum, Kakuam, and Ithang.

In addition to anal plugging, chewing, and drinking Kratom in tea form, snorting and rubbing the drug are also popular methods of administration.

What Is Plugging Kratom?

Plugging Kratom refers to the administration of the soluble drug into the body through the rectum. This route of administration is often used by people who may have a Kratom addiction. Those with a drug addiction may prefer the anal administration, as it leads to faster effects and direct absorption of the drug through the small intestine when compared to snorting, intervenous injection, or oral consumption.

Plugging Kratom leads to higher levels of the drug being present in the circulatory system and widespread distribution to the body. This method of abuse bypasses the liver’s filtering and metabolizing processes that takes place during oral ingestion.

Anal plugging may be influenced by the form of available kratom. Kratom is often sold as a kratom powder, kratom tea, kratom capsules, kratom extract, or gum. Plugging kratom commonly involves mixing the drug with water until a paste form is produced. The drug is then inserted into the anal cavity with the use of a syringe.

Side Effects Of Plugging Kratom

Plugging Kratom can cause adverse side effects that include effects from the drug itself and improper anal administration.

Kratom use through plugging may cause the following side effects:

• anal irritation, infection, and discomfort
• exposure via contaminated syringe to diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis
• worsening of preexisting health conditions of the digestive system
• indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation

Plugging Kratom may have adverse effects when combined with other common prescription medications, including antidepressants, illegal drugs, certain foods, and other natural medicines.

Side effects of kratom drug use include:

• aggression
• hallucinations
• skin color changes
• nausea
• vomiting
• slow breathing

Kratom use may cause some individuals to experience psychotic episodes that include hallucinations, delusions, or confusion. People who have underlying mental health concerns or chemical imbalances may be more prone to side effects when taking the drug. Kratom side effects may last upwards of five hours.

Kratom Withdrawal

Like other drugs that produce opioid-like effects and opioid withdrawal, kratom might cause chemical dependence as the brain becomes reliant on kratom’s presence in the body.

Kratom withdrawal symptoms include:

• chronic pain
• insomnia
• irritability
• mood swings
• hostility
• aggression
• runny nose

People who use Kratom may feel physical withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug and begin to detox.

Kratom Addiction Treatment

Although kratom isn’t regulated like other addictive substances, people who use it recreationally can still develop psychological and physical dependence that makes it difficult to quit. Those who plug kratom face even higher risks because this method of use can lead to stronger dependency and more severe withdrawal symptoms that are similar to opiate withdrawal. These withdrawal effects can include anxiety, muscle aches, nausea, and intense cravings that drive continued use.

When someone finds themselves unable to stop using kratom despite negative consequences, or when they’re using the drug to avoid dealing with stress and daily responsibilities, it’s time to seek professional help. Substance abuse treatment programs can provide the medical supervision, counseling, and support needed to safely detox from kratom and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Getting treatment early can prevent the addiction from worsening.

If you or a loved one is addicted to Kratom, or if you have any questions about substance abuse treatment programs, reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff