Does Kratom Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?   

4 minute read

Key Takeaways

  • Kratom can cause withdrawal symptoms. Although not everyone experiences withdrawal, regular or prolonged kratom use may lead to physical dependence, with symptoms lasting anywhere from about one week to one month.
  • Withdrawal symptoms can resemble those of other addictive substances. Common symptoms include muscle aches, nausea, dizziness, high blood pressure, insomnia, cravings, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, making professional support helpful for many individuals.
  • Detox is only the first step in recovery. While managing withdrawal safely is important, lasting recovery often requires addressing the psychological and behavioral factors that contribute to substance use through comprehensive addiction treatment.
  • Kratom is not FDA-approved for treating addiction or withdrawal. Despite being marketed for pain relief, mood enhancement, or opioid withdrawal, kratom’s safety and effectiveness remain uncertain, and its use may present additional risks—particularly for people in recovery.

 

Question: 

Does Kratom cause withdrawal symptoms?

Answer: 

Kratom is a plant-derived substance that has gained popularity for its reported effects on pain, energy, mood, and even opioid withdrawal, but it is not approved by the FDA for any medical use. While some people believe kratom is a safer alternative to other substances, regular use can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped. Withdrawal may include nausea, muscle aches, dizziness, insomnia, cravings, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, with symptoms lasting from several days to several weeks depending on the individual. Because research on kratom is still evolving, there is no standardized medication specifically approved to treat kratom withdrawal. The blog emphasizes that professional detox and addiction treatment can help individuals manage withdrawal more comfortably while addressing the underlying causes of substance use. Rather than relying on unproven remedies, seeking evidence-based care offers the best opportunity for a safer detox process and long-term recovery from kratom dependence.

Kratom is a natural substance with many lofty health claims. While it isn’t approved by the FDA to treat any conditions, it is not illegal. People use kratom for numerous reasons, including mood boost, energy, pain relief, mental health challenges, and even drug withdrawal. Currently, the Drug Enforcement Administration is monitoring kratom use in the U.S. Much is still unknown about its effects, both good and bad. With this in mind, one common question is, does kratom cause withdrawal symptoms? 

Does Kratom Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?

The plant substance kratom causes withdrawal symptoms in some people. At this point, it’s not well known who will experience withdrawal and who won’t. Further, there is no approved medication for treating kratom withdrawal symptoms. Typical to drug withdrawal, the timeline lasts between one week and one month. For those who experience them, symptoms may include the following:

  • Aches and pains
  • Nausea
  • High blood pressure
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Cravings
  • Low energy
  • Poor concentration

How to Manage Kratom Detox and Withdrawal 

If you experience withdrawal from kratom use, your body is adjusting after becoming dependent on the substance. A lot is still unknown about how kratom acts as an addictive substance on the body. Yet, if you are experiencing withdrawal from kratom, it’s best to treat it like any drug addiction. Professional drug treatment can help you find physical relief from kratom, as well as psychological healing. There are reasons why people turn to substances. True healing addresses the root causes of addiction. Additionally, for withdrawal, professional drug detox in our treatment center will help you have the most comfortable withdrawal possible.

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What Is Kratom?  

Kratom is a plant-based substance that is used as a supplement. In the United States, kratom is currently legal but monitored for dangerous effects. In many other countries, the substance is illegal. Notably, drug enforcement officials in the U.S. are concerned about some of the side effects and risks of kratom. The FDA doesn’t approve kratom for any medical purpose, although people use it for mental health, substance addiction, and pain. Kratom originates from the plant Mitragyna speciosa in Southeast Asia. Used in alternative medicine for decades, kratom supplements reportedly sometimes contain higher doses than occur naturally. Since the effects are so strong, this can be a danger. Markedly, low-dose effects mimic stimulants, like energy, alertness, focus, and sociability. Large dose effects mimic opiate sedatives, like relaxation and stress-relief. However, psychedelic symptoms like delusions and hallucinations can occur.

Kava vs Kratom: What’s the Difference?

Kratom and kava often get confused, so how do they differ? Kava is also a legal herbal supplement in the U.S. The kava plant originates in the Pacific Islands and is extracted for use. It’s commonly drunk as a tea, powder, or beverage. Its effects are mood-boosting and relaxing. On the other hand, kratom is a plant-based substance that mimics powerful medical drugs.  While kava is safe for use, kratom is closely monitored and may present dangers to users. Currently, both are legal in the United States, but there are certain restrictions and safeguards placed around kratom.

Is Kratom Safe for People in Recovery?

While some people report using kratom to help them withdraw from substance addiction, it isn’t medically approved for this purpose. Overall, not enough is known about the safety and risks of kratom use. People who are recovering from substance and mental health disorders are in a vulnerable state. Thus, using a high-risk substance could add extra health issues while they’re already struggling. The safest option for those in recovery is professional monitoring and assistance. 

Finding Professional Help for Drug Detox and Withdrawal 

We help people safely overcome their drug addiction. We cannot recommend kratom, but we do believe in the power of holistic-based recovery. As such, our recovery programming combines traditional and alternative therapies into one comprehensive program. Please reach out today for more information.  

Questions about treatment options?

Our admissions team is available 24/7 to listen to your story and help you get started with the next steps.

  • Vogue Recovery Center, Vogue, VRC

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    At Vogue Recovery Center, we make information about addiction clear and easy to understand, no matter your familiarity with the topic. With expertise in addiction and recovery, the Vogue Recovery Editorial Staff creates content that’s engaging, informative, and relatable. Whether you’re exploring treatment options or the science of addiction, our blog has you covered. We share evidence-based insights on substance abuse and mental health from trusted sources.

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