Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. It can be spelled different ways online (kratum, cratom, kartom, or krantom) but it all refers to the same plant. People in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia have used kratom leaves for hundreds of years.
In recent decades, there’s been more discussion around kratom in the United States and its potential for addiction if misused. Many people have an inherent fear around kratom and its uses, believing it to be similar to marijuana or even methamphetamine (meth). But kratom is a unique substance that merits examination based on its unique aspects.
What is Kratom?
The leaves of kratom contain two main active compounds: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These chemicals interact with opioid receptors in the brain.
Kratom comes in several forms:
- Leaf: Whole or crushed leaves that people brew into tea
- Powder: Ground leaves mixed into drinks or food
- Pills: Capsules containing powdered kratom
Depending on how much kratom a person consumes, it can act as a stimulant (increasing energy and alertness) or produce effects similar to opioids (such as pain relief).
Why Do People Use Kratom?
People use the kratom drug for several main reasons: pain relief, increased energy, improved mood, and help with opioid withdrawal. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 1.7 to 3 million Americans have tried kratom.
Common reasons people turn to kratom include:
- Pain management: Some use it in an attempt to use alternative to prescription pain medications.
- Energy boost: Low doses may provide stimulation similar to caffeine.
- Opioid withdrawal: Some people try using kratom to manage withdrawal symptoms.
- Recreational use: Higher doses can create what’s called a “kratom high.”
The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use, and the agency continues to warn about potential health risks.
Is Kratom Addictive?
Yes, kratom can be addictive despite being a natural plant. Scientific research shows that regular use of kratom can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms in some people. This means that the body and brain can adjust to the presence of kratom, and stopping use can cause uncomfortable effects.
Studies have found that about 8% to 12% of people who use kratom may develop a use disorder or addiction. Compared to traditional opioids, kratom has a lower risk for overdose and addiction, but the risk still exists.
Several factors can influence the rate of developing kratom addiction:
- Frequency of use: Daily or multiple daily use increases addiction risk.
- Dosage patterns: Higher amounts can lead to stronger dependence.
- Individual factors: Genetics, mental health conditions, and past substance use can affect risk.
- Method of consumption: Using concentrated forms of kratom (like extracts) may increase risk.
Signs and Symptoms of Kratom Addiction and Dependence
Dependence means the body has adjusted to having kratom, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if the person stops. Addiction involves not only dependence, but also a loss of control over use and continued use despite negative effects in the person’s life.
Behavioral signs of kratom addiction include:
- Taking more kratom than planned
- Using kratom longer than intended
- Trying to cut down or stop, but being unable to
- Spending significant time getting, using, or recovering from using kratom
- Neglecting responsibilities at home, school, or work
Physical symptoms often include:
- Cravings or strong urges to use kratom
- Needing higher amounts to get the same effects (tolerance)
- Feeling sick when not using kratom (withdrawal)
Psychological indicators may show up as:
- Thinking about kratom (or using kratom) much of the time
- Feeling anxious if unable to get kratom
- Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
What are the Dangers of Kratom?
Kratom can cause a range of health risks, especially when used regularly or in high amounts. Short-term effects may include nausea, vomiting, itching, sweating, dry mouth, and constipation. Some people experience dizziness and drowsiness, while others report increased heart rate and agitation.
Long-term use carries more serious health concerns:
- Liver damage: Can show up as yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, and abdominal pain
- Weight loss: Significant appetite loss and unintended weight reduction
- Sleep problems: Chronic insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns
- Heart issues: Irregular heartbeat, especially when combined with other substances
Contamination is a major concern with unregulated kratom products. Because there is no major oversight over kratom production, products may contain harmful bacteria (such as salmonella) or dangerous heavy metals (such as lead and nickel). The strength can vary widely between kratom products and batches. Unlike states that have legalized cannabis, there is no legal incentive for kratom producers to maintain consistent dosage.
The risk of overdose can increase when kratom is combined with other substances. Most fatal cases reported to the CDC involved other drugs in addition to kratom.
Is Kratom Legal?
The FDA does not approve kratom for any medical use and has been classified as Schedule I.
State laws about kratom vary widely. Some states allow kratom sales with age restrictions, while others have banned it completely. These laws can change, so the legal status in a certain area might be different now than it was last year.
Symptoms of Kratom Withdrawal
Kratom withdrawal produces symptoms similar to opioid withdrawal but usually milder. Common symptoms include muscle aches, joint pain, insomnia, sweating, runny nose, nausea, and diarrhea. Some people also experience chills, tremors, and frequent yawning.
Symptoms usually begin within 12 to 24 hours after last use and can last about 3 to 7 days. Physical discomfort typically peaks in the first two or three days, then gradually improves. Compared to traditional opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers, kratom withdrawal is generally considered less severe.
Psychological symptoms during kratom withdrawal can include:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Low mood and depression
- Restlessness
- Inability to focus
- Strong cravings for kratom
- Difficulty experiencing pleasure from usual activities
Some people may experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), where symptoms like anxiety, low mood, and sleep problems continue for weeks or months after stopping kratom.
Practical Steps to Reduce or Stop Kratom Use
If you’re considering reducing or stopping kratom use, tracking current consumption patterns can help. Write down every time you use kratom, including the amount and form (pills, powder, or tea). This helps identify triggers and situations where your use increases.
Stopping kratom suddenly (“cold turkey”) can cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. A slower approach is generally more manageable and successful. Gradual tapering involves slowly lowering your daily kratom amount over time. For example, if you use 10 grams daily, dropping to 8-9 grams for the next week, then 6-7 grams, can reduce severe withdrawal reactions.
Medically assisted detox can include doctors, addiction specialists, and mental health therapists. Medical professionals can monitor your health, provide guidance on safe tapering, and prescribe medications if needed for withdrawal symptoms. Therapy options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing can help address cravings and underlying issues moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom
Can kratom cause permanent brain damage with long-term use?
Current research doesn’t show clear evidence that kratom causes permanent brain damage in humans. But as of the publishing of this post, studies on this subject are limited. The most known risks involve dependence, mood changes, and cognitive effects rather than irreversible brain injury.
Does kratom show up on standard drug tests?
Standard workplace or clinical drug panels typically don’t test for kratom or its active compounds. Specialized laboratory testing can detect kratom, but this isn’t routinely performed and can be more expensive than standard tests.
Can someone overdose on kratom?
Overdose from kratom alone is considered rare. But high doses can lead to severe effects like confusion, seizures, or slowed breathing (not unlike the effects of opioid overdose). Most reported deaths involving kratom include having it mixed with other substances.
Receive Help for Addiction at Lumina Recovery
Kratom addiction treatment can require a combination of approaches because kratom has both stimulant-like and opioid-like effects. Treatment plans often need to be individualized, and frequently require treating addiction to other substances as well.
At Lumina Recovery, we integrate evidence-based approaches into our comprehensive treatment programs, including dual diagnosis treatment and individual therapy. These services help address not only the addiction, but the underlying mental health conditions that may contribute to substance use. Contact our team to learn how our treatment centers can help support your recovery journey.