Kratom has emerged as a controversial herbal remedy in the U.S., promoted by some as a natural alternative for managing pain, anxiety, or even opioid withdrawal. Derived from the leaves of a Southeast Asian evergreen tree, kratom is readily available online or in specialty shops in capsule, powder, or tea form.
Though kratom is legal at the federal level, it is not an FDA-approved substance. The DEA has classified it as a drug of concern due to its high potential for abuse. Over half of U.S. states and Washington, D.C., have enacted regulations on kratom or its components.
What Makes Kratom Addictive?
Despite its origins as a traditional folk medicine, kratom can quickly lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and even overdose when combined with other substances.
Much like prescription painkillers or heroin, kratom’s chemical compounds interact with opioid receptors in the brain. In low doses, it acts as a mild stimulant, offering increased alertness and energy. At higher doses, kratom mimics the effects of opioids by producing euphoria, pain relief, and sedation.
This dual action may attract people seeking relief from chronic pain or mood disorders. Others use kratom as an unregulated, over-the-counter way to taper off harder substances. However, using kratom in this way can create new problems instead of solving old ones.
Symptoms of Kratom Dependence and Withdrawal
Long-term or high-dose kratom use can result in physical dependence. When someone stops taking it, they may experience a range of withdrawal symptoms that resemble opioid withdrawal, including:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating and chills
- Muscle spasms
- Irritability or aggression
- Insomnia
- Intense cravings
- Anxiety or depression
These symptoms can be challenging to manage alone and may lead to relapse or the use of other harmful substances to ease discomfort.
Is Kratom Dangerous?
While many still view kratom as a harmless herbal supplement, it carries real and potentially deadly risks – especially when mixed with other substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids. Some commercial kratom products also contain fentanyl or other adulterants, dramatically increasing the risk of overdose.
Though the DEA attempted to ban kratom in 2016, public outcry delayed the decision, and its legal status remains in flux. What hasn’t changed is the lack of conclusive research on kratom’s safety and effectiveness – and the growing number of people seeking help for dependence.
Recognizing Kratom Abuse
It may be time to seek help if you use kratom and experiencing the following:
- Increased tolerance and escalating doses
- Inability to stop or reduce use
- Mood swings or irritability
- Social withdrawal or loss of interest in activities
- Secretive or dishonest behavior about drug use
- Financial difficulties due to purchasing kratom
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using
Safe Detox and Counseling at Global Medical Detox
Detoxing from kratom can be physically and emotionally challenging, particularly for those with co-occurring mental or physical health conditions. Global Medical Detox provides medically supervised detox in a hospital-based setting designed to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the process.
Our approach includes:
- 24/7 monitoring by nurses and physicians
- Individualized treatment plans to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Integrated counseling services to explore the underlying causes of substance use
- Support for co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or chronic pain
Our drug and alcohol counselors will work closely with you to identify your emotional triggers and develop a personalized plan for long-term recovery. With a 1-to-5 nurse-to-patient ratio and regular physician oversight, we ensure no one detoxes alone – and that every client has access to the care and insight they need to move forward.
Help is available if you’ve turned to kratom to cope with stress, manage pain, or replace another drug. Like other substances, kratom responds best to structured, evidence-based care in a medically supportive environment. Contact us today to learn more about our detoxification and counseling services.