Kratom addiction may result when individuals continuously abuse the substance. Kratom affects opioid receptors in the brain, and some may develop increased tolerance and dependence after prolonged use. Symptoms of kratom abuse may include sweating, dry mouth, and continued use despite associated consequences.
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Is Kratom Addictive?
Kratom addiction may develop when individuals become dependent on the substance.1 The active chemical compounds in kratom mitragynine and 7-α-hydroxymitragynine interact with the natural opioid receptors in the brain. Over time, the neurological system can become dependent on kratom, sometimes leading to cravings and withdrawal when use ceases.
History of Kratom
Kratom is the common name of Mitragyna speciosa (an evergreen tree). Thai and Malaysian natives have used kratom leaves for centuries to increase energy and stamina. Kratom is legal and readily available, with many people drinking it as an infused beverage.
Recently, sellers have marketed kratom extract (also known as ketum) in pills, tablets, and tea as an herbal remedy for everything from muscle pain to treatment for opioid addiction and withdrawal. However, the FDA has not substantiated these health claims, and evidence suggests that kratom abuse can be harmful and addictive.
How Kratom Affects the Brain
Kratom affects the brain differently depending on the dosage strength. Lower doses of kratom act as stimulants and cause increased energy, sociability, and alertness.
When individuals consume kratom in high doses, the alkaloids interact with opioid receptors in the brain. This results in the user experiencing heightened sedation, euphoria, pleasure, and decreased pain. As a result, many believe kratom can be a less harmful substitute for opioids or a way to reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Advocates claim that kratom can help people get off more dangerous street drugs, like heroin. However, no credible studies have proven this statement. In fact, those struggling with addiction who substitute kratom for other opioids may increase their risk of relapse.2
Signs & Symptoms of Kratom Addiction
As mentioned, the symptoms of kratom addiction vary based on dosages and the individual. Common signs of misuse include unexplained mood swings, changes in appetite, sleeplessness, and agitation. In rare cases, kratom abuse may lead to seizures.3
Signs and symptoms of kratom addiction may include:
- Risky behaviors
- Continuing to use the drug despite knowing the associated consequences
- Decreased productivity in school or at work
- Secrecy or social withdrawal
- Inability to stop taking kratom, even after multiple attempts
- Increased tolerance (needing to take more of the drug to achieve the desired effects)
- Weight loss or loss of appetite
- Changes in sleep habits
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Nausea
- Itching
- Sweating
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Increased urination
- Hallucinations
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What Causes Kratom Addiction?
Addiction is a complex condition involving many biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Some people develop substance use disorders to cope with physical and emotional pain, while others suffer from various co-occurring mental health disorders contributing to abuse. These factors also apply to those struggling with kratom addiction.
Additionally, kratom has become popular at music festivals and other recreational settings. Those who already abuse other substances, as well as opiate addicts looking for an inexpensive alternative to medically assisted treatment, are two groups who are especially at risk of kratom abuse.4 Once a person regularly uses kratom, many catalysts or triggers can lead to abuse.
Possible causes and triggers of kratom addiction include:
- Stress
- Major life disruptions
- Relationship troubles
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Unmanaged physical pain
- Social isolation
- Peer pressure
- Depression
Can Kratom Addiction Cause Withdrawal?
Those addicted to kratom may experience significant withdrawal symptoms after they stop using.5 These symptoms occur as the body responds to the sudden removal of the substance.
Symptoms of kratom addiction withdrawal may include:
- Muscle aches
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Hostility
- Aggression
- Emotional changes
- Runny nose
- Jerky movements
Treatment for Kratom Addiction
Treatment for kratom abuse and addiction will depend on the person, the severity of their addiction, and their motivation to remain sober. For some individuals, rehab or inpatient care may prove beneficial for coping with withdrawal symptoms and removing any temptation for kratom abuse. Others may seek outpatient treatment and psychotherapy to help them address underlying issues contributing to substance use.
Therapy for Kratom Addiction
Several therapy methods can prove effective for those addicted to kratom. Therapy can help individuals recognize potential triggers for kratom abuse and develop coping strategies.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) addresses addiction by helping people make changes to the way they think and behave. The patient and therapist can work together to uncover underlying emotions and thoughts contributing to kratom abuse, allowing the patient to develop healthier alternatives to replace these negative beliefs.
Research also suggests that medically assisted treatment (MAT) shows promise in treating kratom addiction. Some studies found that the drug buprenorphine-naloxone is effective in managing withdrawal symptoms.6
Rehab for Kratom Addiction
Rehab or inpatient care includes living in a facility while detoxing or in the beginning stages of recovery. Treatment can last anywhere from several days to a month or longer.
One of the most challenging obstacles a kratom addict faces is the danger of using again and relapsing. Relapses are more easily avoidable due to restricted access to addictive substances and tight security protocols. Regular drug testing provides another deterrent to relapse.
Inpatient treatment typically includes a combination of individual counseling, support group meetings, and developing relapse prevention plans.
Outpatient Treatment & Support Groups
Outpatient treatment programs are similar to rehab, except individuals live at home and maintain their routines. The person may attend individual and group counseling sessions several days a week for four or more hours. Drug testing is usually a prerequisite for participation.
Support groups for people recovering from kratom addiction are widely available. The basic principle of addiction recovery groups is people who share a common issue are best suited to support one another in their recovery. Meetings usually include a period of personal sharing and are generally voluntary.
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Finding Help For a Loved One With Kratom Addiction
Helping someone with an addiction can be frustrating, confusing, and even harmful to your financial and emotional well-being. Your loved one may refuse any attempts to help them, driving an even deeper rift in your relationship.
Taking care of your own mental and emotional needs should come first when supporting someone with kratom addiction. Consider finding individual counseling, attending support groups, and setting healthy boundaries with your loved one.
If your loved one is in imminent, life-threatening danger, seek professional help and support from private counselors. However, they must decide to pursue treatment to maintain sobriety. Continue encouraging treatment and their recovery efforts, and consider helping them find the right therapist with an online therapist directory.
Final Thoughts
Living with kratom addiction can be challenging, but help is available to assist you as you cope with withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and underlying issues.
Kratom Addiction Infographics
ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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FDA In Brief: FDA objects to kratom compound intended for use as an alternative to prescription opioids and promoted with unproven claims to treat addiction. (2018). FDA Office of Media Affairs. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/fda-brief/fda-brief-fda-objects-kratom-compound-intended-use-alternative-prescription-opioids-and-promoted
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Kratom, An Addicts Alternative, Is Found to be Addictive Itself. (2016). New York Times. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/03/us/kratom-an-addicts-alternative-is-found-to-be-addictive-itself.html
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Burke, D. C., Shearer, A. C. I., & Van Cott, A. (2019). Two cases of provoked seizure associated with kratom ingestion (P4.5-030). Neurology, 92. http://n.neurology.org/content/92/15_Supplement/P4.5-030
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Smith, K. E., & Lawson, T. R. (2017). Prevalence and motivations for kratom use in a sample of substance users enrolled in a residential treatment program. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 180, 340–348. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.08.034
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Stanciu, C. N., et al. (2019). Kratom Withdrawal: A Systematic Review with Case Series. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 51(1), 12–18. https://doi.org/10.1080/02791072.2018.1562133
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Weiss, S. T., & Douglas, H. (2020). Treatment of kratom withdrawal and dependence with Buprenorphine/Naloxone: A case series and systematic literature review. Journal of Addiction Medicine, 15(2), 167–172. https://doi.org/10.1097/adm.0000000000000721
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