Tianeptine vs Kratom comparison

Tianeptine and kratom are two substances that have garnered interest in the realm of self-medication. Both drugs share a commonality in how they interact with opioid receptors to produce their effects. Among the community of users, these substances are predominantly used for the relief of symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, and pain.

Notably, kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, has been widely used in traditional medicine owing to its natural opioids. On the other hand, Tianeptine, a prescription antidepressant, has seen use in several countries for its potent effects in modulating receptors for improved mood and reduced depressive symptoms. The difference in their origins – one being a plant-based natural substance and the other, a synthesized pharmaceutical, shapes the discussion around their comparative risks, benefits, and legal regulation.

Understanding the Distinction between Kratom vs. Tianeptine

In the wake of recent FDA warnings regarding products like Neptune's Fix, which contain tianeptine, it's crucial to emphasize the stark differences between Kratom and tianeptine, especially in terms of their composition, safety, usage, and regulatory status.

Natural vs. Synthetic Composition:

Kratom is a natural botanical substance derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, traditionally used in Southeast Asia for its potential therapeutic effects. In contrast, tianeptine is a synthetic compound, an antidepressant not approved in the U.S., associated with severe health risks and adverse effects.

Regulatory Status

While the FDA has not officially approved Kratom, it remains a legal substance under federal law in the United States, except in specific states or local jurisdictions where it's regulated. Conversely, tianeptine is not approved by the FDA for any medical use and has been linked to significant health hazards, including life-threatening reactions and fatalities.

Safety and Adverse Effects

The recent FDA warning and subsequent recall of Neptune's Fix products underscore the severe risks associated with tianeptine, including seizures, loss of consciousness, and potential death. Kratom, when sourced from reputable suppliers like K Tropix and used responsibly, has a different safety profile. While it's important to acknowledge that any substance, natural or synthetic, can pose risks and should be used with caution, the adverse effects associated with synthetic compounds like tianeptine highlight the need for informed choices and safe practices among consumers.

At K Tropix, we are committed to providing high-quality, natural Kratom products to our customers. We believe in transparency, responsible use, and the need for continued research to fully understand the benefits and risks associated with Kratom. It's imperative to distinguish between Kratom, a natural compound, and substances like tianeptine, a synthetic compound with a track record of significant health hazards.

We encourage our customers and the public to stay informed, consult healthcare professionals, and make choices that prioritize safety, well-being, and the preference for natural, responsibly sourced products.

 

Compounds in Tianeptine vs Kratom

Tianeptine, an antidepressant widely used in clinical trials, possesses a different composition compared to Kratom in terms of active compounds. Researchers have noted its potential for abuse, specifically within populations struggling with substance use disorder. In several instances, users have even reported significant withdrawal symptoms resembling those seen in opioid withdrawal. One study conducted by Garcia-Romeu revealed that the misuse of Tianeptine led to adverse effects such as respiratory depression, a common occurrence in abuse of illicit substances.

Meanwhile, Kratom, a natural substance historically used in Southeast Asia, contains over 40 different psychoactive compounds, which differentiate it from Tianeptine. Despite limited clinical trials, reports have presented psychiatric symptoms among a small sample of users, indicating the existence of "Kratom use disorder". Although generally considered safer, adverse effects including nausea, fatigue and constipation have been tied to Kratom. The scientific community continues to have rigorous debates concerning its potential for abuse, as long-term effects remain largely unknown.

The effects of Tianeptine vs Kratom

Smith and Grundmann have researched extensively into the anxiolytic effects of both Tianeptine and Kratom. Tianeptine, seen as a potential tool for managing opioid use disorder, has been linked to relief from opioid withdrawal symptoms. Known to interact with the mu-opioid receptor, Tianeptine is often utilized by individuals attempting to self-treat anxiety and chronic pain. 

On the other hand, Kratom, a herbal supplement rich in alkaloids, offers a different set of health outcomes. Kratom alkaloids, according to Kruegel's study, can also bind to the mu-opioid receptors, leading to a decreased sensation of pain, along with tranquilizing effects. As a result, some individuals have used it as an alternative and natural remedy for mental and physical discomfort, anchoring on its potential to regulate mood and pain.

Risks of Tianeptine vs Kratom

Both Tianeptine and Kratom are associated with a wide range of risks due to their potential negative effects and are occasionally classified as illicit drugs. Tianeptine, an atypical antidepressant, has been linked with numerous health risks, including mood disorders, memory impairments, and anxiety disorders. It also has a high risk of substance abuse as it exhibits opioid-like effects when taken in high doses, stimulating the same opioid receptors associated with substances like morphine and heroin. According to Smith et al., tianeptine's misuse can lead to serious health problems, including liver damage, respiratory failure, and even fatality in extreme cases.

In contrast, Kratom, a naturally occurring psychoactive drug, also has its share of potential risks. The metabolism of mitragynine, the primary psychoactive component in Kratom, has been frequently misunderstood and underestimated. This could potentially lead to dangerous interaction with other substances, unpredictable adverse reactions, and addiction or dependence. Researcher Grundmann O reinforces these risks, emphasizing in his study that neurological, psychiatric, and cardiovascular problems are also possible side effects of Kratom use. Despite being seen by some as a safer alternative to opioids, the potential for Kratom misuse and the lack of regulatory oversight significantly increases the associated risk factors.

Laws and legal regulations of Tianeptine vs Kratom

In an extensive study by Garcia-Romeu et al., the legal regulations concerning Tianeptine are reflected upon. The research shows that due to its potential misuse and depressive disorder treatment, some affiliated organizations have been pushing for tighter control on its usage and sale. Contrastingly, Kratom, as noted by Kruegel AC and his colleagues, is a natural plant product with highly variable alkaloid content, making it a point of controversy across several jurisdictions. Despite the fact it's widely used for medicinal and recreational purposes, its legality varies drastically by country and even within regions of the same country.

Taking a deeper dive into the legal implications of these compounds, research by Boyer et al., saw a rise in legislative measures implemented to control the sale and use of performance-enhancing substances like Tianeptine and Kratom. On the other hand, McCurdy investigated the legislative response towards Kratom particularly in Southeast Asia, where it is mostly grown. His findings, published in J. Addict., indicated that despite the growing popularity of Kratom use outside of Asia, its legal status remains uncertain worldwide.

Mechanism of Action of Tianeptine vs Kratom

Abuse potential between Tianeptine and Kratom varies, largely due to demographic factors and individual substance use history. For instance, lifetime Kratom users often report a higher prevalence of Kratom use in their communities. This could possibly be attributed to various factors such as accessibility, social acceptance, and personal choice. Regular Kratom use often results in tolerance, dependence and, unfortunately, a degree of unwanted effects. However, these unwanted effects, such as nausea, constipation, loss of appetite, and psychological disturbances, are different from those seen in conventional opiates.

The Subjective Effects of these compounds also differ. According to a study published in the J. Psychoactive Drugs, Tianeptine's subjective effects have been reported as less intense than those of Kratom. The effects of Tianeptine may include mood elevation, relief from anxiety or depression, and improved cognitive functions. However, common side effects like insomnia, headaches, palpitations, and even anorexia can occur. In comparison, Kratom is often reported to produce euphoria and relaxation. However, inadvertent harm is also possible, evidenced by a rising concern linking Kratom to the current opioid crisis. Understanding these substances' actions requires more comprehensive research to fully appreciate their potential benefits and risks.

What is the key difference between Tianeptine and Kratom?

Tianeptine and Kratom, while similar in many ways, diverge significantly in how they approach to depression and their potential for dependence. Tianeptine, originally developed as an antidepressant, has shown considerable efficacy in mitigating withdrawal symptoms of opioid addicts according to a study by Grundmann O. Its chemical structure differs from traditional opioid analgesics, with a particular potency for eliciting both μ-opioid and δ-opioid receptor agonistic effects, as explored in McCurdy CR's research. However, this unique interaction has a downside: Tianeptine possesses a considerable potential for dependence.

On the other hand, Kratom, a tropical tree indigenous to Southeast Asia, has been traditionally employed as a herbal remedy for a variety of ailments. Its leaves contain more than 40 compounds, but the major alkaloid mitragynine is believed to be responsible for its psychoactive effects. According to research by Singh et al. and Garcia-Romeu et al., Kratom exhibits partial agonist activity at μ-opioid receptors, much like opioid analgesics but without the same risk of withdrawal symptoms when ceased. However, some studies like those of Vicknasingam and Sharma, A point to a potential for dependence on Kratom, especially when used in large amounts over extended periods.

What is the difference between Neptune’s Fix vs kratom?

Neptune's Fix and Kratom, both known as cognitive enhancers, have distinct differences in their pharmacological approach and how they impact the body and mind. According to a study published in J. Ethnopharmacol, Kratom, a botanical native to Southeast Asia, contains alkaloids that provide a myriad of effects from pain relief to euphoric highs, depending on the dose. The chemical complexity of this plant means that Metabolite profiling, which involves the identification of enzymes responsible for its breakdown, can reveal a rich pharmacological profile. Conversely, regular users on the Mechanical Turk platform claim that Neptune's Fix, a less-studied compound, provides more cognitive enhancement without the intense euphoria associated with Kratom.

Furthermore, while Kratom acts upon opioid receptors, Neptune's Fix reportedly has a neurorestorative agent, making it potentially safer for long-term use. This difference is brought to light by the study of Prozialeck et al., who underline Kratom's effects on enzymes responsible for metabolism and potential toxicity, which Neptune's Fix does not possess. Despite the comprehensive medical research supporting Kratom's benefits and risks, Neptune's Fix's more subdued and focused benefits have yet to be entirely uncovered, making it an intriguing yet under-explored territory in the world of cognitive enhancers.

Sources

Boyer, Edward W. et al.. (2021). "When an obscurity becomes a trend: Social-media descriptions of tianeptine use and associated atypical drug use" Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8380661/

Vuppalapati, Jaya et al. (2023). "Tianeptine, an Antidepressant with Opioid Agonist Effects: Pharmacology and Abuse Potential, a Narrative Review" Retrieved from: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40122-023-00539-5

Garcia-Romeu, Albert et al. (2022). "For Better or Worse: Self-reported Changes in Kratom and Other Substance Use as a Result of the COVID-19 Pandemic" Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9527987/

Singh, Darshan et al. (2023) "Clinical Implications of Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) Use: a Literature Review" Retrieved from: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40429-023-00478-3