Understanding Kratom and Its Effects
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a plant-based substance that has gained significant attention in recent years due to its stimulant and opioid-like effects.
The substance is derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to Southeast Asia, which contains two psychoactive ingredients, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Kratom has traditionally been used in countries like Thailand and Indonesia for energy, pain relief, and mood enhancement.
In the United States, kratom is often marketed as a natural supplement or herbal remedy, leading many individuals to believe it is completely safe. However, repeated use can lead to substance abuse, withdrawal symptoms, and serious physical and psychological health concerns.
Although kratom is sometimes promoted as a “natural” alternative for chronic pain management or opioid addiction recovery, natural does not always mean harmless. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), kratom is not a controlled substance; however, it has been listed as a drug of concern.
Furthermore, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns the public against the use of kratom, especially for medical treatment.
What Is the Street Name for Kratom?
Some common street or slang names include “Thang,” “Kakuam,” “Ketum,” “Biak-Biak,” and “Herbal Speedball.”
Kratom is commonly referred to simply as “kratom,” but it may also be sold under a variety of names depending on the strain, form, or marketing language used by sellers.
Certain products may also be labeled by strain color, such as red vein, green vein, or white vein kratom, which are marketed as producing different effects.
Is Kratom Addictive?
Yes, kratom can be addictive, especially when used regularly or in high doses over an extended period of time.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the active compounds in kratom affect many of the same brain receptors targeted by opioids, which can lead to tolerance, physical dependence, and withdrawal symptoms.
Over time, kratom users may find themselves needing larger amounts of the substance to achieve the same effects, increasing the risk of drug addiction and other health complications.
People struggling with kratom addiction may experience cravings, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, muscle aches, and difficulty functioning without the drug.
Professional treatment and medical support from experienced healthcare providers can play an important role in helping individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms and begin the recovery process. Our compassionate team at New Choices Treatment Centers is here to help.
How Does Kratom Affect the Body and Brain?
Kratom affects the body and brain by interacting with opioid receptors and altering neurotransmitter activity.
It can often produce stimulating effects such as increased energy, alertness, sociability, and focus. Kratom can also create sedative effects that resemble opioids, including relaxation, pain relief, drowsiness, and feelings of euphoria. These effects occur because kratom’s active compounds influence the central nervous system and the brain’s reward pathways.
Using kratom long-term can impact both physical and mental health. Kratom users may experience increased heart rate, high blood pressure, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, or cognitive difficulties. In some cases, heavy kratom use has also been linked to liver problems, seizures, and psychosis.
How Do Low Doses vs High Doses of Kratom Differ in Effects?
At low doses, kratom typically acts as a stimulant, and at higher doses, kratom produces effects that are much more similar to opioids.
The effects of kratom can vary significantly depending on the amount consumed. Some people use low doses to increase productivity or combat fatigue, which can make kratom appealing to students, workers, or individuals dealing with stress and exhaustion.
On the other hand, high doses can increase the risk of dangerous side effects such as nausea, confusion, dizziness, respiratory depression, and overdose.
It’s important to be especially cautious when kratom is combined with alcohol or other substances. Repeated high-dose use can accelerate tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal, making professional intervention at a treatment center increasingly important.
Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
What Are Common Symptoms of Kratom Withdrawal?
Withdrawal syndrome from kratom often includes symptoms such as muscle aches, nausea, sweating, chills, headaches, tremors, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.
Some individuals may also experience restlessness, a runny nose, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
Withdrawal can cause both physical and psychological symptoms, many of which resemble mild to moderate opioid use disorder withdrawal. Psychological symptoms are often just as challenging. Anxiety, irritability, depression, mood swings, and intense cravings for kratom are frequently reported during withdrawal.
The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the individual’s history of use, overall health, and whether other substances are involved.
How Long Does Kratom Withdrawal Last?
The kratom withdrawal timeline varies from person to person, but symptoms typically begin within 12 to 48 hours after the last dose.
For many individuals, withdrawal symptoms peak within the first few days and gradually improve over the course of one to two weeks.
While physical symptoms often resolve relatively quickly, some people continue to experience emotional and psychological challenges for several weeks. Ongoing cravings, anxiety, low mood, and sleep disturbances may persist beyond the initial withdrawal period, particularly for individuals who used kratom heavily or for an extended period of time.
How Long Does Kratom Insomnia Last?
For most people, sleep patterns begin to improve within one to two weeks.
However, some individuals may continue experiencing intermittent insomnia or disrupted sleep for several weeks as the brain and body adjust to functioning without kratom.
Insomnia is one of the most common and frustrating symptoms of kratom withdrawal. Sleep disturbances are often accompanied by restlessness, anxiety, and vivid dreams.
Professional addiction treatment and healthy sleep habits can help support recovery and improve sleep quality during this time.
What Factors Affect Withdrawal Severity?
One of the most significant factors is the amount and frequency of kratom use.
Individuals who have used high doses for long periods of time generally experience more intense withdrawal symptoms than those who have used smaller amounts or used kratom less frequently.
Other factors that can affect withdrawal severity include a person’s age, physical health, mental health history, genetics, and whether they use other substances alongside kratom.
Individuals with co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, may find withdrawal particularly challenging and may benefit from additional clinical support during the recovery process.
Are Cravings and Psychological Symptoms Common During Withdrawal?
Yes, cravings and psychological symptoms are extremely common during kratom withdrawal.
Many individuals experience a strong desire to use kratom again to relieve discomfort or emotional distress. These cravings can be particularly intense during the first few days of withdrawal but may continue intermittently throughout early recovery.
Psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating can also occur as the brain adjusts to the absence of kratom.
Because these symptoms can increase the risk of relapse, comprehensive treatment programs often incorporate counseling, behavioral therapies, and ongoing support.
Risks and Long-Term Considerations
Can Kratom Withdrawal Be Dangerous?
Kratom withdrawal is generally considered less medically dangerous than withdrawal from other substances.
However, it can still be extremely uncomfortable and challenging to manage without support. Individuals may experience severe anxiety, depression, insomnia, irritability, nausea, and intense cravings that can significantly impact daily functioning.
For individuals with underlying physical or mental health conditions, withdrawal may be more complicated. Seeking professional support can help ensure symptoms are properly monitored and managed.
At NCTC, individuals can receive personalized care and evidence-based treatment designed to support a safer, more comfortable recovery process.
What Are the Risks of Kratom Use and Withdrawal?
The use of kratom carries significant risks, including tolerance, dependence, addiction, and adverse physical and mental health effects.
Long-term use has been associated with sleep disturbances, mood changes, digestive issues, and difficulties with concentration and memory.
Withdrawal itself can also create challenges that make recovery difficult without professional support. Intense cravings, emotional distress, and disrupted sleep patterns can increase the likelihood of returning to kratom use.
How Does Kratom Compare to Opioid Withdrawal?
Kratom withdrawal shares many similarities with opioid withdrawal because kratom’s active compounds interact with some of the same receptors in the brain.
Common symptoms such as muscle aches, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, nausea, and cravings are frequently reported during both types of withdrawal. However, kratom withdrawal is often considered less severe than withdrawal from stronger opioids such as heroin or prescription pain medications.
That said, the experience can still be highly distressing, particularly for individuals who have used large amounts of kratom over an extended period. Every person’s withdrawal experience is unique, which is why individualized treatment is important.
Can Kratom Use Affect Long-Term Health?
Research on the long-term effects of kratom is still evolving, but growing evidence suggests that chronic use may negatively impact both physical and mental health.
Some individuals report persistent fatigue, sleep problems, digestive issues, weight changes, mood disturbances, and cognitive difficulties after prolonged kratom use.
According to a case report by O. Grundmann, the pharmacology of kratom can lead to toxicity, creating potential liver complications and cardiovascular concerns.
Beyond physical health effects, long-term kratom use can interfere with relationships, work performance, financial stability, and overall quality of life. Seeking treatment early may help prevent these consequences from becoming more severe.
Can Long-Term Use Create Kratom Dependence?
Yes, long-term kratom use can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
Over time, the brain adapts to the presence of kratom, causing individuals to develop tolerance and require larger amounts to achieve the desired effects. As drug dependence develops, stopping or reducing use may trigger withdrawal symptoms that make it difficult to quit without support.
Many individuals who become dependent on kratom did not initially intend to misuse the substance. They may have started using it to manage pain, stress, anxiety, or opioid withdrawal symptoms before finding themselves unable to stop.
Managing Kratom Withdrawal
Can Kratom Withdrawal Be Treated at Home?
Kratom withdrawal is best treated by professionals in an inpatient detox setting.
Professional support offers a safer and more effective path to recovery. Medical and clinical professionals can help monitor symptoms, provide emotional support, and address any complications that arise.
How Can Loved Ones Help During Kratom Withdrawal?
Loved ones can help by offering encouragement, listening without judgment, assisting with daily responsibilities, and creating a stable and supportive environment.
Simply knowing that someone cares and understands can help reduce feelings of isolation during a challenging time. The support of family members and friends can make a meaningful difference during kratom withdrawal and recovery.
It is also important for loved ones to educate themselves about substance use disorder and recovery. Understanding what to expect can help them respond with compassion rather than frustration.
NCTC recognizes the important role families play in the recovery process and may incorporate family support and education as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Are There Non-Medication Approaches for Withdrawal
Yes, several non-medication approaches may help individuals manage kratom withdrawal symptoms and support recovery.
Counseling, behavioral therapies, mindfulness practices, meditation, exercise, proper nutrition, and healthy sleep habits can all contribute to improved physical and emotional well-being during withdrawal. These strategies can help individuals cope with cravings, manage stress, and develop healthier ways to navigate difficult emotions.
Because every person’s recovery journey is unique, non-medication approaches are often most effective when combined with professional treatment and ongoing support.
Can Medical Detox Help With Kratom Withdrawal?
Medical detox can be an effective option for individuals experiencing moderate to severe kratom withdrawal symptoms.
During detox, healthcare professionals monitor clients closely and provide support to help manage physical discomfort, emotional distress, and potential complications. Providers may use a tapering protocol during medical detox to avoid a rebound effect, in which the brain tries to restore balance too quickly, leading to significant withdrawal symptoms.
There are currently no FDA-approved medications for kratom withdrawal. However, kratom users experiencing other conditions, such as alcohol use disorder or alcohol dependence, may need medication to withdraw safely. One case report also shows the possibility of medications like buprenorphine being effective for kratom detox.
What Other Treatments Are Effective for Kratom Dependence?
Individual therapy, group counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and relapse prevention planning can all play important roles in long-term recovery.
Successful recovery from kratom dependence often involves more than simply stopping use. Effective treatment addresses the physical, emotional, and behavioral factors that contribute to substance use.
Because no two individuals have the same experience with addiction, treatment should be tailored to each person’s unique needs.
Prevention and Aftercare Support
How Do Relapse Prevention and Aftercare Work?
Relapse prevention and aftercare services help individuals identify triggers, develop healthy coping strategies, and create a plan for navigating challenges that may arise during recovery.
These ongoing supports can help reduce the risk of returning to substance use while promoting long-term stability and well-being.
Aftercare may include continued counseling, support groups, alumni programs, recovery coaching, and regular check-ins with treatment professionals.
At New Choices Treatment Centers, relapse prevention planning is an important part of treatment, helping clients build the skills and confidence needed to sustain recovery long after they leave formal care.
How Can Loved Ones Support Someone With Kratom Dependence?
Loved ones can provide encouragement, emotional support, accountability, and understanding while helping individuals stay motivated throughout treatment and recovery.
Creating a nonjudgmental environment can make it easier for someone struggling with kratom dependence to seek help and remain engaged in their recovery journey.
It is also important for loved ones to set healthy boundaries and educate themselves about addiction and recovery. By learning more about kratom dependence, families can better understand the challenges their loved one may face and provide meaningful support.
What Role Do Counseling, Peer Support, and Behavioral Therapies Play in Recovery?
Individual counseling helps clients explore the underlying factors that contribute to substance use, while behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) help individuals identify unhealthy thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
These evidence-based approaches can improve emotional resilience and reduce the risk of relapse.
Peer support also plays an important role in recovery by connecting individuals with others who understand their experiences and challenges. Support groups and recovery communities in an outpatient program can provide encouragement, accountability, and a sense of belonging throughout the healing process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is kratom addictive like opioids?
While kratom is not classified as an opioid or opiate, it can interact with opioid receptors in the brain and may lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction with repeated use.
Do people go to rehab for kratom?
Yes, many individuals seek professional treatment at facilities like New Choices Treatment Centers when kratom use leads to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, or difficulty controlling use.
What is kratom hangover?
Kratom hangover refers to lingering effects after use, which may include fatigue, brain fog, headaches, nausea, dehydration, and difficulty concentrating.
What does kratom deplete in the body?
Although research is ongoing, chronic kratom use may contribute to nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, disrupted sleep, and imbalances that affect overall physical and mental health.
What organs are affected by kratom?
Kratom can affect several organs, including the liver, kidneys, heart, and brain, particularly when used frequently, in high doses, or alongside other substances.
Does kratom mess with your serotonin?
Kratom may influence serotonin and other neurotransmitter systems in the brain, which can affect mood, emotions, and mental health in some individuals.
Are there FDA warnings about kratom?
Yes, the FDA has issued warnings about kratom due to concerns regarding addiction, dependence, contamination risks, serious side effects, and the lack of approved medical uses.
The use of kratom can lead to dependence, withdrawal, and addiction. New Choice Treatment Centers offers detox, residential, and outpatient treatment programs to help clients overcome substance use disorder.