How Long Does Kratom Detox Last?

What is Kratom and How Does It Work?

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds like mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain. This interaction produces stimulant effects at low doses and sedative effects at higher doses.

Kratom products are often sold as powders, capsules, or teas. While some kratom users take it for chronic pain or to help with opioid withdrawal, regular use can lead to dependence.

Despite being marketed as a natural pain relief and mood enhancer, kratom is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any medical use. The FDA also continues to monitor kratom due to concerns about safety and addiction risks.

How is Kratom Addictive?

Many people believe that because kratom is a plant, it cannot cause addiction. However, research shows that regular use can lead to both physical and psychological dependence. Kratom dependence happens when the brain adapts to the presence of kratom alkaloids, causing withdrawal symptoms if use is stopped.

Research indicates that about 55% of regular kratom users develop dependence, with some experiencing relapse rates between 78% and 83% within three months of cessation. Moreover, an estimated 1.9 million Americans reported using kratom recently, many of whom self-medicate chronic pain or opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Kratom use is particularly prevalent among individuals with a history of opioid use disorder, suggesting that some turn to kratom as an alternative or supplement in managing opioid addiction. However, reliance on kratom can lead to its own substance use disorder, highlighting the need for awareness and appropriate medical guidance.

Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms

The withdrawal process begins after kratom use stops and can be challenging due to a combination of physical and psychological symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms occur as the brain adjusts to the absence of kratom’s opioid-like effects.

Common physical withdrawal symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle cramps and aches
• Runny nose and sweating
• Fatigue

Psychological withdrawal symptoms often involve:

• Anxiety and depression
• Mood swings
• Intense cravings for kratom
• Sleep disturbances and irritability

The severity of withdrawal varies depending on factors such as how much kratom was used, how long the person has been using it, and individual health considerations.

How Long Does Kratom Detox Last?

The kratom detox and withdrawal process varies depending on factors like the duration and amount of kratom use, individual health, and method of consumption. However, the typical kratom withdrawal timeline can be broken down into phases as follows:

• Within 12 to 48 hours: Withdrawal symptoms usually begin. Early signs include anxiety, flu-like symptoms such as a runny nose, sweating, and mood swings.
• Days 1 to 3: Symptoms peak in intensity. Kratom users may experience severe cravings, stomach discomfort, trouble sleeping, and heightened psychological distress.
• Days 4 to 10: Symptoms gradually begin to fade. Physical symptoms like diarrhea and muscle pain subside, but psychological symptoms such as depression and cravings may persist.
• Beyond 10 days: While the acute phase of withdrawal often ends by the tenth day, some kratom users can experience lingering post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), characterized by mood swings, apathy, and continued cravings that can last weeks or even months.

Managing Kratom Detox and Treatment Options

Kratom detox can be difficult and may require medical supervision, especially for heavy or long-term users. Medical detox provides a controlled environment where symptoms can be managed safely under professional care.

Strategies for managing withdrawal include:

• Hydration and balanced nutrition
• Gentle exercise and other physical activities
• Over-the-counter remedies to ease headaches, stomach issues, etc
• Rest and gradual reduction in kratom dosage (tapering)
• Psychological support and counseling

Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for kratom detox. However, treatments used for opioid addiction, such as buprenorphine and naltrexone, may be helpful in some cases under medical guidance.

Support groups and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are valuable resources for maintaining abstinence and addressing psychological cravings.

The Importance of Medical Detox

Medical detox for kratom users is crucial to prevent dangerous withdrawal symptoms and reduce relapse risk. Those with co-occurring opioid addiction or substance use disorder benefit particularly from integrated treatment programs that address both physical dependence and mental health.

Healthcare providers recommend consulting professionals before attempting to stop kratom use abruptly. A well-planned detox and recovery ensure that the withdrawal timeline is managed safely, and long-term recovery can begin on a stable foundation.

Kratom Addiction Treatment

Understanding the complexities of kratom withdrawal, the withdrawal timeline, and the effects of kratom is essential for anyone considering or currently using kratom products.

While kratom may provide some relief, it has significant risks, including addictive potential and challenging detox symptoms. Awareness and professional treatment offer the best path to safely overcoming kratom dependence and supporting long-term health.

Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, our addiction rehab and detox centers provide comprehensive treatment suitable for each of our clients’ needs. Reach out today and explore safe and effective detox solutions.