Kratom is a plant-based substance that has become more common in the United States. Some people use kratom for its stimulant effects, while others use it for pain relief or to feel relaxed. As kratom use has increased, more people have reported problems with dependence and withdrawal. Westwind Recovery® offers evidence-based treatment options for people seeking help with kratom addiction.
What is Kratom and Why Does it Cause Addiction?
Kratom comes from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, which grows in Southeast Asia. The leaves have two main active compounds: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds interact with opioid receptors in the brain.
At low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, which can make people feel more alert and energetic. At higher doses, it produces opioid-like effects, such as pain relief and a sense of euphoria.
Regular kratom use can lead to physical dependence. Over time, the brain adapts to the presence of kratom, and people may need to take more to feel the same effects. According to recent data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, thousands of people in the United States each year seek help for kratom addiction treatment.
The risk of addiction comes from kratom’s ability to activate opioid receptors. This process can change how the brain works, making it difficult to stop using kratom without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of Kratom Withdrawal
Kratom withdrawal happens when a person who has used kratom regularly stops taking it. The symptoms can affect both the body and the mind.
Physical symptoms include muscle aches, nausea, insomnia, and tremors. Some people may also notice watery eyes, a runny nose, or changes in appetite.
Psychological symptoms are also common. These can include anxiety, irritability, depression, and cravings for kratom.
Kratom withdrawal usually starts within 12 to 24 hours after the last dose. Symptoms often reach their peak around the second or third day and then start to get better over the next week. Each person’s experience can be different, depending on how much and how often kratom is used.
The table below shows how kratom withdrawal compares to opioid withdrawal:
| Symptom | Kratom Withdrawal | Opioid Withdrawal
|
| Muscle aches | Yes | Yes |
| Nausea/vomiting | Yes | Yes |
| Insomnia | Yes | Yes |
| Anxiety/irritability | Yes | Yes |
| Severe dehydration | Rare | More common |
| Life-threatening risk | Rare | Possible |
Withdrawal from 7-hydroxymitragynine, which is one of the main compounds in kratom, can be more difficult because of its strong effects on the brain’s opioid receptors.
Professional Kratom Addiction Treatment Options
Treatment for kratom addiction usually combines medical supervision, behavioral therapy, and ongoing support. Different levels of care are available, depending on the severity of dependence and the specific circumstances of each person.
Inpatient detox is designed for people with severe dependence on kratom. It takes place in a medical setting where healthcare professionals continuously monitor patients. The detox protocol can include checking vital signs, managing withdrawal symptoms, and using medications to address discomfort or complications related to kratom withdrawal.
Outpatient programs enable individuals to participate in treatment while continuing their daily activities, such as attending school or work. These programs are available in several formats, including partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient care. In these settings, individuals attend scheduled therapy sessions and receive support from clinical staff without the need for overnight stays.
There are no medications specifically approved by the FDA for kratom withdrawal. However, some healthcare providers use certain medications off-label to help manage symptoms. Clonidine is sometimes used to reduce anxiety and agitation, and buprenorphine may be used to address opioid-like withdrawal symptoms. These medications are only given under medical supervision as part of medication-assisted treatment.
How to Detox From Kratom Safely at Home
Detoxing from kratom at home can be possible when a careful plan is followed. A safe approach helps reduce risks and allows the body time to adjust to the changes.
Reducing kratom use slowly is the recommended way to stop. A common method involves lowering the dose by 10-20% every few days. This approach limits withdrawal symptoms and gives the body a chance to adapt to smaller amounts.
Some basic steps can help manage withdrawal symptoms. Drinking enough water and using sports drinks supports hydration and electrolyte balance. Eating meals that include vitamins and minerals is important for overall health during recovery. Light exercise, such as walking or gentle stretching, can help alleviate physical discomfort. Relaxation techniques and a consistent sleep schedule can help alleviate insomnia and restlessness.
Having support from others can make recovery more manageable. Professional advice, support groups, and the involvement of friends or family members all play a role. A strong support network provides encouragement and accountability during the process.
Kratom Withdrawal Tips and Management Strategies
Kratom withdrawal can be managed using several practical strategies. Tracking symptoms in a diary helps people notice patterns, such as when symptoms get better or worse. This information can be useful for healthcare providers or for planning daily activities.
Physical comfort is important during withdrawal. Hot baths or heating pads may help relieve muscle aches, which are a common symptom. Some people use over-the-counter pain medicine for mild discomfort, but it is important to talk with a healthcare professional before starting new medications.
Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can help manage feelings of anxiety or restlessness. These strategies may help people feel calmer and improve their focus.
Kratom withdrawal can feel similar to having the flu, with symptoms such as muscle aches, nausea, and trouble sleeping. Many people also experience emotional symptoms, including irritability, anxiety, and cravings for kratom. Difficulty sleeping and feeling restless are common, especially during the first few days of withdrawal.
Long-Term Recovery and Preventing Kratom Relapse
Long-term recovery from kratom addiction involves ongoing steps after withdrawal is over. Recovery programs often include individual therapy, group counseling, and changes in daily routines. Some people continue with regular therapy sessions or join support groups to stay focused on their recovery goals.
Relapse prevention is a process that helps people avoid returning to kratom use. One part of this process is identifying triggers, which are situations, feelings, or people that can lead to cravings or the urge to use kratom again. Creating a list of these triggers can help increase awareness and facilitate effective planning.
Coping mechanisms are healthy ways to handle stress, boredom, or difficult emotions. Examples include physical activities like walking or playing sports, creative hobbies such as drawing or music, or learning new skills. These activities provide alternatives to using kratom.
Ongoing support is also a crucial component of long-term recovery. Participation in counseling, peer support groups, or aftercare programs helps individuals stay connected and accountable. These resources provide opportunities to discuss challenges and find solutions with others who have similar experiences.
Getting Professional Help for Kratom Addiction
Kratom addiction can involve both physical and mental symptoms. Some people experience strong cravings, withdrawal, or find it difficult to stop using kratom on their own. When symptoms are severe or when previous efforts to quit have not worked, professional treatment is sometimes used.
Treatment for kratom addiction usually includes medical supervision and counseling. Programs that utilize evidence-based approaches often incorporate a combination of therapy, support groups, and ongoing monitoring by healthcare professionals. Westwind Recovery® offers these types of services, and the programs are accredited, meaning they meet certain quality standards. The center has also been recognized through partnerships, such as with Dr. Phil, which highlights its credibility in the field of addiction treatment.
Treatment plans are developed based on each individual’s specific needs and circumstances. This approach is designed to address both the physical effects of kratom and any underlying mental health concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom Addiction Treatment
Clonidine and buprenorphine are sometimes used off-label to manage kratom withdrawal symptoms. These medications are given under medical supervision because they can affect blood pressure and other body systems.
Kratom detox usually takes 5 to 10 days for the most intense withdrawal symptoms to resolve. The length of detox can be different for each person, depending on how much kratom was used and for how long.
Kratom withdrawal is rarely life-threatening. However, some individuals may experience severe symptoms. Medical supervision is recommended for anyone with significant dependence or other health conditions.
Kratom activates both stimulant and opioid pathways in the body. Opioid drugs mostly act as depressants. Because of this, withdrawal from kratom can involve a mix of symptoms not always seen with opioids.
Many insurance plans include coverage for addiction treatment. Coverage for kratom-specific treatment programs can vary, so contacting treatment centers is the best way to confirm benefits.
If you are considering professional support for kratom addiction, Westwind Recovery® provides kratom addiction treatment in Los Angeles, including outpatient and holistic therapy options. Contact us today to get started.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
