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Mitragynine, an **alkaloid** from plants, is the main piece in the **herbal** supplement Kratom. It tickles **opioid receptors** lightly, which might spark **joy** and ease **anxiety** in small doses. But, watch out—taking more of Kratom can bring **sedative effects**.
Caffeine, on the other hand, is an alkaloid derived from the coffee bean, and is the primary active component of the stimulant effects of coffee. Coffee may have adverse effects including headache, nausea, anxiety, a racing heart, and ultimately fatigue when consumed in excess or in conjunction with certain drugs or other substances.
The dosage of each drug may affect how Kratom and coffee interact with one another. Therefore, while thinking about combining these drugs, it’s crucial to keep this in mind. It is ideal to have a strategy in place for taking them together, and if you have any worries, speak with a healthcare professional.
Is It Okay to Combine Caffeine-Rich Coffee with Kratom? What Dangers Exist?
Coffee and Kratom may have complementary (synergistic or additive) or antagonistic effects, making their combination either additive or subtractive. This may be influenced by elements including the dosage, strain, and mode of ingestion for each chemical.
The following may happen when Kratom and coffee are combined…
1. Coffee Strengthens Kratom’s Effects (Agonistic Interaction)
When two medications with comparable physiological effects are taken concurrently, their combined effects may be amplified. We refer to this as an agonistic encounter, usually called “synergistic” or “additive” in pharmacology.
Coffee may promote alertness and wakefulness by blocking adenosine receptors in the central nervous system.
Coffee may promote alertness and wakefulness by blocking adenosine receptors in the central nervous system. When taken in smaller dosages, Kratom affects the noradrenaline system and may boost energy and focus. As a consequence, there may be an agonistic interaction between the effects of Kratom and coffee, increasing the likelihood of positive effects.
Coffee does not affect the generation of adenosine; rather, it blocks adenosine from attaching to receptors in the brain that are involved in the process of getting ready for sleep. In fact, since caffeine in coffee blocks its receptors, the body may make more adenosine as a result.
Adenosine will attach to receptors in greater quantities once coffee’s effects wear off, which may make you feel fatigued. As a result, drinking a lot of coffee may eventually make you drowsy as the caffeine wears off.
Kratom and coffee may both have a stimulatory impact when taken in low dosages together, which may also result in agitation, heart palpitations, jitteriness, and distractibility. On the other hand, using these medicines in large doses together may have very strong sedative effects, primarily from the Kratom, but if the user has a history of caffeine overuse with upregulated adenosine receptors, then high doses of caffeine will contribute to the sedative effects also. As a result, while taking these drugs together, it’s critical to pay attention to the dose.
Related: Full List of Kratom Potentiators
2. Coffee May Reduce the Effect of Kratom (Antagonistic Effect)
Coffee Neutralizes Kratom’s Effects (Antagonistic Interaction)
When two supplements are taken together that have opposing effects on the body, an antagonistic interaction occurs. This kind of interaction may also occur when one supplement’s bioactive compounds prevent the other from working properly or being absorbed.
When large dosages of Kratom (more than 8 grams) are combined with coffee, for instance, a high dose of Kratom serves as a sedative, while the coffee functions as a stimulant. The effects of one of these supplements may be completely eliminated, or considerably reduced by this combination (antagonistic interaction).
When less than 5 grams of Kratom and more than 400 mg of coffee are mixed, this kind of interaction is also possible, albeit it won’t happen until the caffeine wears off. The combination would still be regarded as having an undesirable interaction up to that moment.
The body uses various metabolic processes to process coffee and Kratom. Coffee is processed predominantly by CYP1A2, while Kratom is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2D6. It follows that these two chemicals do not compete metabolically.
Kratom and Coffee Interactions
Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that belongs to the methylxanthine class of compounds. Other substances in this group that may interact with Kratom include aminophylline, dyphylline, theobromine, and theophylline.
Does Taking Kratom with Coffee Alongside Medication Pose Any Risks?
Kratom and coffee both have separate metabolic routes and different receptors, although they may have comparable effects. The combination of these compounds is unlikely to be fatal or have negative side effects at lower dosages. However, before ingesting any new chemicals, you should always speak with a healthcare professional, particularly if you are already on medication or have underlying medical issues.
For example, the methylxanthines, theophylline, and dyphylline are used in the treatment of airways obstruction caused by conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Theophylline is the most well known and most commonly used methylxanthine. At low dosages, it has an immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and bronchoprotective effect. Higher dosages are needed for its bronchodilator effect. Taking Kratom alongside this medication may have an impact on the dose required.
As was previously said, the effects of these medicines may be increased or diminished by the combination of Kratom and coffee. It is preferable to take these medications at specific times to reduce the possibility of adverse effects.
Caffeine in coffee has a half-life of around 3 hours, while active alkaloids in Kratom have a half-life of 20 hours. To lessen the chance of agitation or distractibility, it would be advisable to take Kratom at least 3 hours after drinking coffee.
For Kratom users, drinking coffee at a different time might be advantageous. Low dosages of coffee may help lessen Kratom dependency and prevent Kratom tolerance from forming.
Kratom vs Coffee: How Do They Compare?
What is Coffee?
The Coffea genus, which has over 6000 species, is the home of the coffee plant. Coffee plants come in between 25 and 100 different kinds, with sizes ranging from tiny bushes to enormous trees. Arabica and Robusta are the two primary coffee species used in the commercial coffee business.
Because Arabica trees grow best in rocky, high-altitude environments, its cultivation is more costly (2000 to 6000 feet above sea level). These trees also need more maintenance and care since they are more susceptible to illness. Robusta trees, on the other hand, are cultivated throughout Southeast Asia and central and western Africa. They can survive high temperatures of up to 85°F and are less susceptible to illness.
How Does Coffee Produce Its Effects When Consumed:
- Adenosine receptor blockade
- Blocking phosphodiesterase which leaves cAMP, increasing cAMP levels
What is Coffee Used For?
Coffee is most commonly used as a source of caffeine, which is a stimulant that can help increase alertness, improve concentration, and boost energy levels. It is often consumed to help people stay awake and alert, especially during times when they need to be productive or need to stay awake for long periods of time, such as during long drives or overnight shifts.
In addition to its use as a stimulant, coffee is also used for its potential health benefits. Some research suggests that regular coffee consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of certain health conditions, such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and certain types of cancer. Coffee is also a source of antioxidants, which are compounds that may help protect the body against damage from free radicals.
Coffee is also enjoyed for its taste and aroma and is often consumed as a social drink. It is a popular beverage around the world and is consumed in a variety of forms, including as a hot beverage, as iced coffee, and in coffee-flavored foods and drinks.
What is the Right Dose of Coffee?
The appropriate dose of coffee can vary depending on a person’s individual tolerance and sensitivity to caffeine, as well as their age, weight, and overall health.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the recommended maximum daily limit for caffeine is 400 milligrams (mg) per day for most adults. However, some people may be more sensitive to caffeine and may need to limit their intake to as little as 100 mg per day. Pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions, such as anxiety disorders or high blood pressure, may need to further limit their caffeine intake.
It is important to note that the amount of caffeine in coffee can vary widely, depending on factors such as the type of coffee beans used, the brewing method, and the serving size. A typical 8-ounce (240-mL) serving of coffee contains about 80-100 mg of caffeine. However, some coffee drinks, such as espresso, can contain much higher amounts of caffeine. It is important to pay attention to serving sizes and the total amount of caffeine consumed from all sources to ensure that you do not exceed the recommended daily limit.
Some Common Side Effects of Coffee Include:
Insomnia: Caffeine can interfere with sleep, making it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep.
Nervousness or anxiety: Caffeine can increase feelings of anxiety and nervousness, especially in people who are sensitive to caffeine or have anxiety disorders.
Stomach upset: Coffee can cause digestive symptoms such as stomachache, acid reflux, and diarrhea.
Increased heart rate: Caffeine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which may be harmful for people with certain medical conditions.
Headaches: Caffeine can cause or worsen headaches – especially migraine – in some people.
Dehydration: Coffee is a diuretic, which means it can increase the need to urinate and may lead to dehydration.
Dependence: Regular consumption of caffeine can lead to physical dependence, which can cause withdrawal symptoms when caffeine intake is stopped suddenly.
It is important to note that these side effects are generally more likely to occur with high doses of caffeine and may be less severe in people who consume caffeine in moderation. It is also worth noting that some people may be more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than others. If you experience any of these side effects or are concerned about your caffeine intake, it is a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, with leaves that contain compounds that can have psychoactive (mind-altering) effects. Kratom is not an opiate, but it acts on the brain’s opioid receptors and can produce effects similar to those of opiate or opioid drugs. The active compounds in Kratom, called mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are thought to interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing sedation, pleasure, and decreased pain.
Kratom is traditionally used as a folk medicine in its native region, where it is used to treat a variety of conditions, including diarrhea, fatigue, pain, and anxiety. In recent years, it has gained popularity in the Western world as a recreational drug and as an alternative to opioid pain medications.
Kratom is available in various forms, including leaves, powders, and capsules, and can be consumed in several ways, including chewing, smoking, and brewing in tea. It is also sometimes marketed as a dietary supplement or as an ingredient in other products.
The use of Kratom is not without risks. Some people who use Kratom may experience negative side effects, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dry mouth. In high doses, Kratom can cause respiratory depression, which can be dangerous or even deadly. There have also been reports of Kratom being contaminated with other drugs, such as opioids, leading to serious health consequences.
What is Kratom Used For?
In recent years, it has gained popularity in the Western world as a recreational supplement, and as a potential alternative to opioid pain medications.
Some people use Kratom to manage chronic pain, to reduce anxiety and depression, and to help with drug withdrawal. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support these uses, and the safety and effectiveness of Kratom for these purposes have not been established.
Potential Benefits of Kratom Reported by Users Include:
- Pain relief
- Reduced stress
- Improved mood
- Energy and focus (lower doses)
- Sedation and soothing (higher doses)
- Euphoria
- And more…
What is the Proper Dose for Kratom?
The proper dose of Kratom can vary depending on several factors, including the person’s age, weight, and overall health. It can also depend on the form of Kratom that is being used and the reason for using it.
There is no established safe or effective dose of Kratom, as it has not been thoroughly studied for medical use. In traditional Southeast Asian medicine, Kratom leaves are typically chewed fresh or dried and brewed into a tea. Doses can vary depending on the desired effects, but are generally in the range of 3 to 10 grams for dried leaves.
In the Western world, Kratom is often sold in the form of powders, capsules, or extracts. The appropriate dose of these products can be difficult to determine, as they are not standardized and can vary widely in potency. It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by the manufacturer or seller, and to start with a low dose to gauge the effects.
It is generally recommended to start with a low dose of Kratom and gradually increase it until the desired effects are achieved. It is important to be cautious when using Kratom, as high doses can cause serious side effects, including respiratory depression.
Potential Side Effects of Kratom Include:
- Nausea: Kratom can cause nausea, especially when taken in high doses.
- Vomiting: Kratom can also cause vomiting, especially when taken in high doses.
- Constipation: Kratom can cause constipation, especially when taken in high doses or on a regular basis.
- Dry mouth: Kratom can cause dry mouth, which can lead to dehydration if not addressed.
- Loss of appetite: Kratom can cause a loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss.
- Itching: Some people who use Kratom may experience itching, especially when they are allergic to the plant.
- Sweating: Kratom can cause sweating, especially when taken in high doses.
- Dizziness: Kratom can cause dizziness, especially when taken in high doses.
- Drowsiness: Kratom can cause drowsiness, especially when taken in high doses.
- Insomnia: Kratom can also cause insomnia, especially when taken in high doses or on an empty stomach.
It is important to note that these side effects can vary in severity and may be more likely to occur at high doses of Kratom. Kratom can also interact with certain medications and may cause serious side effects when taken in combination with other substances. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before using Kratom or any other substance to manage a health condition.
Strains of Kratom
There are several different types of Kratom, which are typically named after the region where they are grown and the color of the leaf veins when they are picked. Some common types of Kratom include:
Final Thoughts on Combining Kratom and Coffee
Both Kratom and coffee have effects on the body, and combining them can either enhance or counteract each other, depending on the dosage.
Mixing these substances may result in unwanted side effects, such as increased heart rate, anxiety, or nausea.
It is generally recommended to avoid taking Kratom and coffee at the same time, but taking both in lower dosages may have synergistic effects. Regardless, it is always best to consult with a medical professional before making any decisions about drug use.
