The Dangers of Kratom Withdrawal

Kratom is a tropical tree and a member of the coffee family indigenous to Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Myanmar, and other countries throughout South Asia.  

In low doses, the leaves of this plant have stimulant properties. In higher doses, kratom leaves act as a sedative. Kratom is also used for pain management, although its use in this capacity is not clinically proven. Many people use kratom for opiate withdrawal.

There are no FDA-approved uses for kratom. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration identified kratom on two important alerts dating back to 2012 and continues to recommend that people refrain from using kratom.

WHAT IS KRATOM?

Lortab AbuseKratom is not classified under the Controlled Substances Act in the U.S. and the substance is federally legal. You can find kratom in stores selling alternative medicines and supplements. Kratom is also widely available online.

There are many names for kratom, including:

  • Ketum
  • Herbal speedball
  • Kahuam
  • Biak-biak
  • Ithang
  • Thom

The scientific name for kratom is Mitragyna speciosa. This is a tropical tree that grows profusely throughout Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Kratom is used in parts of Asia as a mood enhancer and also for the treatment of:

  • Pain
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Diarrhea

The dark green leaves of the kratom plant are dried and then powdered or crushed. People add the dried kratom leaves to tea or smoke the powder. The leaves have psychotropic properties, meaning that while kratom is legal, it is also a mind-altering substance. 

Up to 5 million people in the United States use kratom and it comes in many different forms, colors, and sizes, such as white kratom.

Small doses of kratom induce stimulant effects. At higher doses, kratom brings about effects similar to the effects of opioids. According to the FDA, kratom may impact the same opioid receptors as morphine. For these reasons, many people mistakenly believe kratom is an opioid rather than an evergreen plant from the coffee family.

Is kratom addictive, then?

DOES KRATOM CAUSE PHYSICAL DEPENDENCE?

Kratom has the potential for abuse and addiction. Current research suggests that kratom is less addictive than opioid painkillers.

When kratom is used regularly and long-term, the following adverse side effects can manifest:

  • Appetite changes
  • Weight loss
  • Disrupted sleep cycles
  • Social problems caused by kratom use
  • Physical dependence 

When you become physically dependent on kratom, you will experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings for kratom in the absence of the substance.

WHAT ARE THE WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH KRATOM?

man depressed from using demerolKratom withdrawal produces broadly similar effects to opioid withdrawal and opiate withdrawal, although symptoms are not typically as severe.

Research shows that kratom withdrawal lasts from 3 to 10 days, producing adverse effects like nausea, muscle aches, and cravings for kratom.

When you introduce a substance like kratom into your system, your brain chemistry is altered. All substance use disorders lead to changes in the structure and function of the brain, and kratom is no different.

Researchers believe that kratom works on opiate receptors in a similar way to morphine, and kratom withdrawal is resultantly similar to opioid withdrawal. That said, some research shows that kratom withdrawal is not as intense or long-lasting as opioid withdrawal. 

How bad is kratom withdrawal, then?

Well, the good news is that kratom withdrawal is not dangerous. Most people detoxing from sustained kratom use experience mild symptoms in line with a bad cold.

Anyone with previous substance abuse issues should seek medical advice before suddenly quitting kratom.

Those who have been using kratom to stop using opioids are at heightened risk of relapse. The way in which tolerance to opioids shifts so swiftly means that opioid relapse can easily lead to a fatal opioid overdose.

Kratom withdrawal can trigger the following adverse psychological effects:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Mood changes
  • Irritability
  • Agitation

You can also expect to experience any or all of the following physical symptoms of kratom withdrawal:

Kratom withdrawal symptoms 

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Changes to blood pressure and heart rate
  • Decreased appetite
  • Muscle aches
  • Fever
  • Sweating
  • Hot flashes
  • Severe abdominal cramps
  • Watery eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Jerky movements
  • Diarrhea
  • Blurred vision
  • Dilated pupils
  • Seizures

So, now you know what to expect from kratom withdrawal, how long does it last? 

Not everyone using kratom develops dependence on the substance, and not everyone will experience kratom withdrawal either.

The more kratom you use, the greater your risk of both dependence and withdrawal. As a rough benchmark, using more than 5 grams each day is liable to induce negative outcomes. 

If you have been using kratom to self-medicate symptoms of pain, or if you have been using the substance to lessen the withdrawal symptoms of other substances, you are at heightened risk of becoming dependent and suffering withdrawal symptoms when quitting kratom.  

Kratom Sleep Issues

Kratom sleep issues can arise in some cases, though not necissarily common. While many Kratom users report Kratom making them more drowsy, Kratom has also been reported anecdotally to cause sleep issues when taken to close to bedtime, similar to the effects of caffeine. 
 
This is likely because at low doses, Kratom can cause alertness, increase energy, and heighten brain activity, making it harder for your brain and body to become relaxed enough to doze off. 
 
On the other hand, Kratom withdrawal symptoms can also cause insomnia due to chemical dependence, and can also contribute to Kratom sleep issues. 

KRATOM WITHDRAWAL TIMELINE

The onset and duration of your kratom withdrawal experience will depend on how much of the substance you were using, and how long you were using it for.

The size of your last dose also influences when the effects of the drug subside, and how quickly withdrawal sets in.

Occasionally, symptoms manifest within a few hours of your last kratom dose.

More often, though, the first symptoms of withdrawal present within 12 hours to 24 hours of your last dose. 

Data show that kratom withdrawal lasts from 3 to 10 days. 

Even for those heavily dependent on kratom, withdrawal symptoms should dissipate within a week or so.

There are some anecdotal reports of those using kratom heavily experiencing PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome) characterized by depression, insomnia, and anxiety, although more research is needed in this area. You can find anecdotal evidence in kratom withdrawal reddit threads.

  • First 12 hours of kratom withdrawal: Anxiety, depression, flu-like symptoms.
  • Days 1 to 3 of kratom withdrawal: Withdrawal symptoms will peak, and the risk of relapse is greatest during this phase of withdrawal.
  • Days 4 to 7 of kratom withdrawal: The more severe symptoms of kratom withdrawal will dissipate and detox is complete. 

WHAT ARE THE RISKS INVOLVED WHEN USING KRATOM?

A 2017 study examined the potential benefits and risks of kratom.

Researchers discovered that kratom has some stimulant effects, some negative effects, and may potentially be effective for treating depression. 

Using kratom can also trigger the following serious adverse outcomes: 

  • Memory loss
  • Seizure
  • Coma
  • Death 

Beyond this, kratom use can bring about the following physical and psychological side effects:

  • Aggression
  • Hostility
  • Dry mouth
  • Euphoria
  • Vomiting
  • Jerky body movements
  • Psychosis 

The effects of kratom kick in quickly. Feelings of calmness and happiness occur between 5 and 10 minutes after using kratom.

Sustained kratom use can trigger the following adverse effects:

  • Nausea
  • Itching
  • Sweating
  • Constipation
  • Sleep disruption
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Hair loss 

It is possible to overdose on kratom, but kratom overdoses are not commonly reported in the United States. 

Reports of deaths associated with kratom typically involve the use of other drugs. NIDA (National Institute on Drug Abuse) reports that 9 of the 11 deaths associated with exposure to kratom also involved the following substances:

  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Cocaine
  • Fentanyl

CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) reports a dramatic increase in calls to poison centers linked to the use of kratom from 2010 to 2015.

Just two of the kratom deaths reported in the U.S. between 2011 and 2017 were attributed to kratom use in isolation.

There is insufficient evidence to establish the long-term effects of abusing kratom.

Some case studies indicate that the sustained use of large quantities of kratom is associated with:

  • Kidney injury
  • Acute liver damage
  • Cardiovascular complications
  • Drug-induced hepatitis
  • Seizures
 

KRATOM WITHDRAWAL TREATMENT

Fortunately, there are several practical steps you can take to ease the symptoms of kratom withdrawal. 

  • OTC antidiarrheal medication: Taking over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication like Pepto-Bismol or Imodium can mitigate the diarrhea associated with kratom withdrawal.
  • OTC pain reliever: Taking an OTC pain reliever like Tylenol or ibuprofen can soothe both fever and muscle aches, both common symptoms of kratom withdrawal.
  • OTC antiemetic: Antiemetic medication like Dramamine can help lessen the vomiting and nausea that comes with kratom detox.
  • Eat little and often: Try eating small and frequent meals. Stick to bland food to minimize vomiting and nausea, while at the same time easing stomach discomfort.
  • Stay fully hydrated: Vomiting and diarrhea, as well as excessive sweating – all common symptoms of kratom withdrawal – easily causes dehydration. Drink lots of water to combat this. Consider a rehydrating supplement.
  • Practice relaxation techniques: From mindfulness and breathing exercises to meditation and yoga, there are many ways to help alleviate the insomnia, anxiety, and pain accompanying kratom withdrawal.
  • Speak with your doctor: If you are concerned about withdrawing from kratom at home, talk with your primary healthcare provider and voice your concerns.

ADDICTION RECOVERY AT GRATITUDE LODGE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

We offer inpatient and outpatient treatment for all types of addictions and mental health disorders here at Gratitude Lodge. We have pet-friendly and inclusive luxury rehab centers located in Long Beach, Newport Beach, and San Diego.

Initiate your recovery from kratom addiction by engaging with a supervised medical detox at one of our Southern Californian locations. You can then transition directly into a 30-day inpatient program or an IOP (intensive outpatient program). 

Your treatment team at Gratitude Lodge will personalize a treatment plan from the following interventions and therapies:

  • MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
  • Individual counseling
  • Group counseling
  • Psychotherapies (CBT and DBT)
  • Family therapy
  • Daily meetings
  • 12-step immersion program
  • Holistic therapy 

When you are ready to move beyond kratom abuse, reach out to Gratitude Lodge by calling 800-994-2184.

Drug detox can vary according to the patient’s addiction factors, including the substance abused, how long the addiction has lasted, the patient’s medical condition, if any other disorders are present, and more. Our skilled and credentialed team at Gratitude Lodge work closely with every patient going through drug detox, facilitating the beginnings of a successful recovery at our rehab addiction centers in Orange County, CA.

Drug detox can vary according to the patient’s addiction factors, including the substance abused, how long the addiction has lasted, the patient’s medical condition, if any other disorders are present, and more. Our skilled and credentialed team at Gratitude Lodge work closely with every patient going through drug detox.

Many patients don’t realize the toxicity of prolonged alcohol abuse and how it affects the body. Alcohol detox at the luxurious rehab addiction centers at Gratitude Lodge leeches your body of these toxins in preparation for successful treatment for drugs and alcohol abuse. Alcohol detox may not take as long or produce severe withdrawal symptoms, but it is still an essential beginning to your recovery.

Many patients don’t realize the toxicity of prolonged alcohol abuse and how it affects the body. Alcohol detox at the luxurious rehab addiction centers at Gratitude Lodge leeches your body of these toxins in preparation for successful treatment for drugs and alcohol abuse.
an image of clients representing drug detox california

Holistic Therapy

Our holistic therapy treatments offer a full-scope approach to recovery, addressing your mind, body, and emotions as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This therapy is designed to help address underlying issues and integrate alternative therapies to promote overall health and well-being.
Gratitude Lodge clients laughing, representing drug detox california

Psychotherapy

An essential part of your treatment experience, we offer individual (CBT and DBT talk therapy) and group addiction treatment counseling to help you explore and address the emotional component of addiction, providing you with the tools, self-awareness, and empowerment you need to maintain recovery.
woman at beach representing drug detox in california

Dual Diagnosis

Dual Diagnosis is a highly effective addiction treatment that addresses substance use and mental health disorders simultaneously. Often co-occurring, these disorders are best managed when treated together with specific and targeted therapy.
an image of a client and therapist at Gratitude Lodge's Long Beach addiction treatment center

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-Assisted Treatment provides you with FDA-approved medications to help ease the symptoms of withdrawal while you’re in treatment. This makes the detox process easier and safer, as well as increasing the chances of a successful recovery.
an image of clients outside after getting help at Gratitude Lodge's rehab in Long Beach, California

Sober Living

Sober living provides a supportive and substance-free living environment for your ongoing recovery. We partner with a number of upscale and carefully vetted sober living homes that are available to our clients after inpatient alcohol and drug addiction treatment.
an image of clients at Gratitude Lodge's carson drug rehab

Outpatient Treatment

Once detox and inpatient are complete, we provide an easy transition to outpatient care through our hand-selected partners. This program offers a more flexible approach, allowing you to ease back in to daily life while still receiving frequent & effective care.
An image of clients going through inpatient substance abuse treatment

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment provides an intensive and comprehensive addiction treatment program in a structured environment. You will receive 24/7 expert care, therapy, and support as you build your foundation for long-term recovery.
an image of clients at clients at Gratitude Lodge's representing fear in recovery

Drug & Alcohol Detox

A crucial first step in the recovery process, our detox program provides a comfortable, medically supervised environment that addresses the physical aspect of addiction and eliminates substances from your body.
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share on Linkedin
Share on Email
Jenni Bussi

Jenni Busse MS, LPCC

Jenni Busse MS, LPSS is the Clinical Director at Gratitude Lodge. Jenni oversees the clinical program and the clinical team at Gratitude Lodge as a whole. Jenni has worked in treatment for almost 14 years. Her background as a licensed therapist and her passion for helping others intersected with addiction recovery when she started working primarily in detox residential treatment.
Joe Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore has been working in the addiction industry for half a decade and has been writing about addiction and substance abuse treatment during that time. He has experience working for facilities all across the country. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn.

Use Our 24 Hour text line. You can ask questions about our program, the admissions process, and more.