How Do I Quit Kratom Safely?
There is a reason we are getting more calls about how to quit Kratom safely at Sanford Behavioral Health. Kratom addiction tends to sneak up on people because it is marketed as a “safe” and “natural” alternative to painkillers or as an energy boost. It is also readily available over the counter, which can make someone less cautious about frequency of use and dosage until physical dependence quietly takes place.
A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found multiple commercial kratom products with concentrations of 7-hydroxymitragynine substantially higher than those found in raw kratom leaves, which makes it difficult to know how much is too much. Mitragynine is the main alkaloid in Kratom; the more potent 7-hydroxymitragynine is typically a minor alkaloid.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is an extract that comes from a tropical evergreen native to Southeast Asia. Kratom is often used to self-medicate chronic pain, anxiety, depression, opioid use disorder, and opioid withdrawal. The effects occur within 5 to 10 minutes of ingestion and can last from 2 to 5 hours. In low doses, Kratom acts as a stimulant or upper. In higher doses, Kratom acts as a sedative, creating a sense of calm and reducing pain. It is sold at head shops, convenience stores, gas stations, and online in liquid, tablet, or powder form.
“Kratom is not controlled under the Controlled Substances Act; however, there may be some state regulations or prohibitions against the possession and use of Kratom. The FDA has not approved Kratom for any medical use. In addition, the DEA has listed Kratom as a Drug and Chemical of Concern.” Drug Enforcement Administration Fact Sheet 2020
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What is the Path to Kratom Addiction?
The path to Kratom addiction is similar to the path of any substance use disorder. It begins with increased tolerance to the substance and ends with disruptions to relationships, work, health, and activities of daily life.
- Tolerance increases so that higher or more frequent doses are needed to get the desired effect.
- Warning signs begin to show, like restlessness, irritability, or fatigue, when a dose is missed.
- There is an escalation in the use and secrecy surrounding Kratom to avoid judgment or conversation about quitting.
- Manifestations occur when a person tries to quit:
- Physical withdrawal symptoms may include muscle aches, muscle spasms, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, insomnia, runny nose, fever, sweating, and chills.
- Psychological symptoms include anxiety, mood swings, cravings, loss of interest in things that once brought joy, and concern about stockpiling and secreting Kratom or where the next dose will come from.
- Negative impact on work or school, relationship problems, neglected health, or responsibilities.
For more information, read our article on kratom withdrawal from a detox RN’s perspective:
The Rise in Kratom Addiction (an RN’s Perspective)
How to Quit Kratom Safely
Quitting Kratom safely for those who have been using it regularly or in high doses can be a challenge. However, it can be done safely with the correct approach. Another study by the NIH found that individuals who took Kratom for more than six months reported withdrawal symptoms similar to opioid withdrawal. Because of this, the medication-assisted treatment given for opioid addiction (e.g., buprenorphine, buprenorphine-naloxone) may be administered.
Have you been using Kratom, and are you experiencing any of the following?
- Severe depression or thoughts of self-harm
- High fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing
- Hallucinations, confusion, delusions
- Sleeplessness
- Muscle pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of joy
- Anxiety, irritability, or severe mood swings
- Diziness
- Drowsiness
- Tremors or seizures
Talk to a Medical Professional
Medical professionals who are familiar with substance use disorders can properly advise, create a taper plan, and monitor symptoms.
- Kratom reacts with other medicines, which may lead to severe side effects.
- If you use other substances like alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines, you should consult a medical professional for a supervised withdrawal.
- Tapering reduces the severity of withdrawal.
- Because the kratom withdrawal process is similar to opioid withdrawal, getting help from a healthcare provider is always best. A health care professional can minimize the risk of relapse and provide safe management of withdrawal symptoms.
The Need for Therapy After Quitting Kratom
Many kratom users are seeking relief from chronic pain, trauma, or other mental health issues. They may be self-medicating anxiety, PTSD, or depression. Because of this, it is important to get treatment after detox to uncover the root cause of the addiction and prevent relapse. The best practices for how to quit Kratom safely start with medical detox.
- Medical detox for symptom monitoring and stabilization
- Residential or outpatient treatment
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment if needed
- Aftercare and relapse prevention
For more information, read our article on mental health treatment:
Introducing Mental Health Residential – 4 Questions for CEO Tracy Rogers
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, eating disorders, or mental health conditions, don’t wait to change your life – click the link below to speak with an admissions specialist. Call us, talk to a real person, and enter treatment 24/7.
