Kratom vs. Tramadol: Differences, Side Effects & Where To Get Them

When it comes to kratom vs tramadol, it’s important to know the major differences between the two if you’re thinking about sticking to one. It might not be a good idea to combine kratom and tramadol either. Today, I’ll be comparing kratom and tramadol for your sake.

Kratom is a natural herbal nootropic that is native to Southeast Asia, while tramadol is a synthetic opioid analgesic used for severe pain. Kratom’s average dosage is about 2-6 grams and the dosage of tramadol oral tablets ranges from 100mg to 400mg per day. It is not recommended to take kratom and tramadol since it reduces their efficacy.

First, let’s go over the main differences between the two!

Differences Between Kratom Vs Tramadol

Kratom and tramadol can act very similarly. For example, they’re both soothing. Kratom also has opioid-like effects, so it almost acts like an opioid.

But, there are a lot of differences that I think are pretty important to note. Here are the differences in their effects, dosages, and how to get your hands on them.

Effects 

The effects of tramadol are similar to other opiates. The effects will depend on how much you take and your level of tolerance.

Here are some of the effects of Tramadol:

• Pain relief
• Possible Euphoria
• Slight energy
• Can act as an anti-depressant
• Feeling of being “high” (depends on the dosage)

Some users of tramadol describe that the effects felt weak and not that great. Of course, it can depend on some of the factors I mentioned above. Everyone’s body reacts differently to drugs.

The effects of kratom are similar but pretty different. It’s been known to have opioid-like effects but users often describe that the effects of kratom feel more smooth.

Here are some of the kratom effects:

• Soothing
• Relaxing
• Euphoric
• Energizing (white and green kratom strains)
• Boosts Mood
• Helps with socializing
• Increases concentration and focus

The effects of kratom will widely depend on the strain and batch. Typically, red strains are more soothing and relaxing, while white and green strains are more energizing and stimulating. Kratom strains, like Maeng Da tend to be a lot more potent than other strains.

The strength of the effects will also depend on your tolerance, weight, and gender. These are all things to consider when trying kratom. It might mean having to try different strains until you find your perfect match.

Dosage 

The dosages for tramadol are going to depend on what your doctor prescribes you take. It’s not recommended to take more than what’s prescribed to you.

The general dosage for tramadol is anywhere between 100mg to 400mg per day. You usually only take about one oral tablet, but some doctors have their patients take them in increments throughout the day.

Unlike tramadol, you can safely take more kratom. The average kratom dosage is about 2-6 grams per use. That’s around 2,000mg to 6,000mg. Some people will take as much as 10-12 grams of kratom, which I don’t recommend. This will give sedative effects and other negative side effects.

Form

Tramadol comes in oral tablets or solutions.

Kratom is offered in many different forms: powder, capsules, and tinctures. The traditional way of taking kratom was to chew the leaves. Now, you can even make kratom into tea! If you are a tea lover, you can use dried or crushed leaves, powder, or even fresh leaves to make kratom tea. There are a variety of options for you to choose from when it comes to kratom.

How/Where to Get Them

You can only get tramadol prescribed to you by a doctor. Anything sold online is illegal and can be dangerous. Some might sell it in a mixed form with other drugs. Tramadol is heavily regulated because it is a strong painkiller that is meant to alleviate extreme pain.

You can easily buy kratom online without a prescription. I do want to note that kratom is illegal in certain states, counties, and cities. Be sure to check your local laws on kratom purchase and usage. For the most part, it’s widely available.

Grow Your Own Kratom

Kratom continues to be one of the most popular psychoactive plants that have practical uses. What’s more, is that you can get them at the comfort of your own home. However, you have to know the differences between kratom seeds. Finding the right seeds may be a challenge, especially since kratom has a window time from transport from farm to seller to maintain its freshness.

Remember that you have to plant these properly chosen seeds in a sunny and windy area with the best soil. Kratoms are trees, so it also takes time, reaching up to 2 to 3 years before it grows. By the second year, you can try harvesting it already. You can gain monthly harvests by the third year. 

Which One Is Stronger?

I’ve heard a lot of people mention that tramadol and kratom can be similar in strength. Some describe that tramadol is pretty weak compared to other opioids.

However, when comparing the dosage amounts, it’s clear that tramadol is a lot stronger. A few hundred mg go a long way. Kratom requires much higher dosages than what’s recommended for tramadol.

This doesn’t mean kratom isn’t effective or strong. Certain strains and the dosage amount can make kratom feel more potent to some than others.

What is Tramadol?

Tramadol is a synthetic opioid analgesic that has narcotic-like pain-relieving effects. It’s prescribed by a doctor to those who have severe pain. 

What is it made of? It’s a combination of opioids and MRIs. The opioids attach to the opioid receptors of the brain while the MRI inhibits serotonin. 

It comes in two forms- immediate-release and extended-release.

Tramadol’s Withdrawals and Side Effects

The side effects and withdrawals of tramadol can be more severe than kratom’s. There is a very long list of side effects. Here are some of them.

Side effects and withdrawal symptoms of Tramadol:

•  Depression
• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Hallucinations
• Depression
• Suicidal Tendencies
• Serotonin Syndrome
• Seizures
• Addiction

Overdosing on tramadol can be life-threatening. Medical attention is needed immediately.

Using Kratom for Opioid Withdrawal

Kratom has the ability to destroy the brain’s craving for opiates and provide pain relief. Medical experts and addiction counselors say that it would be easier to get support to get over opioid withdrawal as compared to merely “dealing with it”.

However, due to the lack of availability of treatment centers, many past opioid users have begun to use kratom as an alternative to deal with opioid withdrawal. Currently, there are still no proper advisories regarding using kratom as an alternative for opioids. 

This, however, does not stop kratom users from enjoying the herbal pain reliever. They either take it raw by eating the leaves or crushing them. Sometimes, it can be turned into tea or capsules. All of these methods have been tried and tested by private individuals such as Eric Mayhew Jr., who has had a positive reaction to using kratom as an alternative for opioids. 

Kratom’s Side Effects

Most of kratom’s side effects are minor. Overdosing on kratom isn’t as common. Side effects occur when you take more than your body can handle. This is why I recommend starting with about 1.5 grams of kratom and then increasing by 0.5 grams until you reach your desired effects. This will be different for everyone.

Here are some of the short-term side effects of kratom:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dry Mouth
• Hallucinations
• Increase Heart Rate
• Increased Anxiety.

Long-term side effects of kratom:

• Psychosis
• Anorexia
• Psychosis

Can You Mix Kratom and Tramadol?

It is not safe to take tramadol with any other stimulants or opioids. However, there are a lot of people that mix kratom and tramadol.

 I don’t recommend doing this because of safety reasons. It’s also not the best when combined. A lot of users who have combined both have described that the tramadol and kratom effects feel weak. They basically cancel each other out. 

You just won’t get the best results out of either if you take them together. 

Reddit Users on Kratom Vs Tramadol

There are a lot of great testimonies on Reddit about users who took kratom and tramadol. A majority of the people there mentioned the negative side effects of tramadol and their bad experiences.

Here are some of those testimonies and opinions on the kratom vs tramadol debate:

“Tramadol is pure torture. I highly suggest trying to cut it down and use Red Bali (or Red Dragon from Gaia) Tramadol has horrific withdrawal and is known for inducing seizures. If you can, try to use kratom. It’s much better on your body overall. (I did 1200mg daily for 4 years)” -ItsYourMotherDear

“I’m 13 days clean from my opiate addiction. Tramadol was my drug of choice due to price/quantity available. I was taking 6-800mg per day. I started taking Kratom 2 days after I quit Tramadol, and I can honestly say that a good red or gold vein heals the same pain that Tramadol did for me. And it even gives you the same mood lift that Tramadol does. But without destroying your liver and becoming as dependent on them. I would highly recommend making the switch. I can personally vouch for the effectiveness. I’ve only been on Kratom for 11 days, but if you have any questions feel free to message me and I’ll do my best to help you.” -46Vince

“…Personally, I prefer kratom over other pain meds due to safety, efficacy, and decreased potential for addiction, but you have to make the decision for yourself. You can try kratom and see how it works for you. I also wouldn’t take tramadol and kratom together. Maybe try kratom for one day instead of the tramadol and see how you respond.” -Kratomqueen

Kratom vs. Tramadol: Which Is the Better Choice?

I think the better choice is obviously kratom. It has similar effects and is much safer. The side effects of tramadol don’t seem to make it worth it. It might be better to stick to kratom, the natural alternative, than the synthetic drug. 

Of course, talk to your doctor first. Tramadol might benefit you more depending on the situation. Either way, I think you should definitely give kratom a try if you haven’t already done so.