Kratom Addiction: Symptoms, Causes, Effects and Treatment

Kratom addiction refers to the compulsive use of Kratom, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Kratom leaves contain psychoactive compounds that interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects similar to opioids such as pain relief, sedation, and euphoria.

According to a study conducted by Joseph J. Palamar, PhD, MPH, from the Department of Population Health at New York University Grossman School of Medicine, an estimated 0.7% of individuals in the U.S. have used kratom in the past year. This data is derived from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which sampled over 56,000 individuals. The study highlights that kratom use is particularly prevalent among those with a prescription opioid use disorder, with 10.4% of those individuals reporting kratom use. Additionally, kratom use is also associated with individuals who use other substances such as cannabis and cocaine.

The symptoms of kratom addiction typically include increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, intense cravings for the substance, social and occupational impairment, and physical health issues. 

The causes of kratom addiction are multifaceted and involve biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

Kratom addiction has a range of effects on individuals, including physical health declines such as gastrointestinal issues, liver damage, respiratory problems, and cardiovascular complications.

The treatment of kratom addiction typically includes medical detoxification, behavioral therapies, support groups, medication-assisted treatment, and holistic approaches to address the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction.

What Is Kratom Addiction?

Kratom addiction is a pattern of compulsive use of the Southeast Asian plant Mitragyna speciosa, whose primary compounds mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine interact with opioid receptors in the brain. Kratom addiction is characterized by physical and psychological dependence, with potentially serious health risks including hallucinations, psychosis, respiratory depression, seizures, heart problems, and liver damage that lead to death. While individuals begin using kratom for pain relief, energy enhancement, or to self-treat opioid withdrawal, the lack of FDA approval and its partial opioid agonist properties make it particularly dangerous when used without medical supervision. 

The condition manifests through withdrawal symptoms when usage stops, increased tolerance requiring larger amounts, persistent cravings, unsuccessful attempts to quit, and continued use despite awareness of these severe health risks.

According to Striley, C. W.’s 2022 study, ‘Health Effects Associated With Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) and Polysubstance Use: A Narrative Review.’, past-year kratom use in the United States ranges from 0.7% to 4.1%. Among users, 48.6% consume kratom in powder form mixed with a beverage, while 19.3% of the 2,798 past-year users reported experiencing adverse effects. Notably, less than 1% of these users sought treatment for their adverse effects, and 2.4% met the criteria for moderate to severe kratom-related use disorder. Demographically, typical users are predominantly male, middle-aged, employed, and have a household income of $35,000 or more, with at least some college education. In terms of usage, 48.4% of users primarily take kratom for pain relief, and an impressive 90.7% of those seeking pain relief found it “very helpful.” Additionally, 67.9% reported no adverse effects, although 31.0% of lifetime users had one or more past-year substance use disorders, and 17.8% had a past-year alcohol use disorder. These findings provide valuable insights into the patterns and effects of kratom use among different demographics.

What Are the Symptoms of Kratom Addiction?

Symptoms of kratom addiction include increased tolerance to the substance, withdrawal effects when stopping use, and persistent cravings that drive continued consumption. Users experience physical complications like gastrointestinal issues, breathing difficulties, and cardiovascular problems, while psychological impacts manifest as mood swings, anxiety, and cognitive challenges.

Here are the common symptoms of Kratom addiction:

• Increased Tolerance: Over time, individuals need higher doses of Kratom to achieve the desired effects due to the development of tolerance.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abrupt cessation of Kratom leads to a range of withdrawal symptoms, including:
  • Irritability: A heightened state of frustration or annoyance occurs without apparent reason.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: A sensation of queasiness arises leading to the expulsion of stomach contents.
  • Muscle Aches and Joint Pain: Discomfort manifests in the muscles and joints, creating a sense of soreness and stiffness.
  • Restlessness and Agitation: An inability to remain calm or still leads to fidgeting and a sense of unease.
  • Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Intense feelings of worry or fear emerge, sometimes culminating in overwhelming episodes of panic.
  • Insomnia or Disturbed Sleep Patterns: Difficulty falling or staying asleep disrupts normal sleep cycles.
  • Sweating and Chills: Alternating sensations of excessive perspiration and coldness affect body temperature regulation.
  • Hot Flashes: Sudden feelings of warmth accompanied by sweating, occur unexpectedly.
• Cravings: Individuals with Kratom addiction experience intense cravings for the substance, leading to compulsive use despite negative consequences.
• Physical Health Issues: Prolonged kratom abuse results in various physical health problems, such as:
  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Discomfort in the digestive system manifests through symptoms like constipation and stomach cramps.
  • Weight Loss or Fluctuations in Appetite: Unexplained changes in body weight occur alongside irregular eating habits, affecting overall nutrition.
  • Liver Damage: Impairment in liver health is indicated by abnormalities in liver function tests, signaling potential harm to this vital organ.
  • Respiratory Issues: Difficulties in breathing and sensations of chest discomfort arise, impacting respiratory function and comfort.
  • Cardiovascular Complications: An increase in heart rate and elevated blood pressure indicate strain on the cardiovascular system, posing risks to heart health.
• Psychological Effects: Kratom addiction also impacts mental health and cognition, leading to:
  • Mood Swings and Emotional Instability: Sudden and intense changes in emotions occur, leading to unpredictability in mood.
  • Anxiety Disorders and Panic Attacks: Persistent feelings of unease and fear develop, sometimes resulting in overwhelming episodes of panic.
  • Depression or Worsening of Existing Depressive Symptoms: A pervasive sense of sadness or hopelessness intensifies, affecting overall mental well-being.
  • Cognitive Impairment: Challenges arise in the ability to concentrate and remember information, hindering cognitive function.
  • Impaired Decision-Making Abilities: Difficulty in making sound judgments and choices emerges, affecting everyday decision-making processes.
• Social and Occupational Impairment: Kratom addiction interferes with social relationships, work performance, and daily responsibilities, resulting in:
  • Neglect of Family or Social Obligations: Responsibilities toward family and social commitments are overlooked, leading to a lack of engagement in important relationships.
  • Strained Relationships: Tensions and conflicts arise in interactions with friends, family, or colleagues, causing emotional distance and misunderstandings.
  • Difficulties Maintaining Employment or Academic Performance: Challenges in fulfilling job or school responsibilities emerge, resulting in decreased productivity and performance.
  • Financial Problems: Excessive spending on Kratom leads to monetary issues, affecting overall financial stability and the ability to meet essential needs.
• Isolation and Avoidance: Individuals with Kratom addiction withdraw from social activities, hobbies, or interests they previously enjoyed, preferring to spend time using Kratom instead.
• Denial and Defensiveness: Some individuals exhibit denial or defensiveness about their Kratom use, minimizing the severity of their addiction or becoming defensive when confronted about their behavior.

What Are the Causes of Kratom Addiction?

The causes of Kratom addiction include genetic susceptibility, brain chemistry alterations, emotional vulnerabilities, and environmental influences. People develop dependency through various pathways, such as using kratom to cope with stress, experiencing neurochemical changes from regular use, or being influenced by social factors and accessibility. Mental health conditions, past trauma, and early exposure to substances significantly increase addiction risk.

Here are the common causes of Kratom addiction:

• Biological Factors: Genetic predisposition and individual differences in brain chemistry play a role in addiction susceptibility. Some individuals have a higher propensity for developing addiction due to genetic factors that affect neurotransmitter function and reward pathways in the brain. According to Deak, J. D.’s 2021 study, ‘Genetics of substance use disorders: a review.’ ‘The heritability of substance use disorders is estimated to be around 50%, indicating a significant genetic component in the risk for developing these disorders.
• Neurochemical Effects: Kratom contains alkaloids such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain. These interactions produce pleasurable effects, leading to the potential for dependence and addiction over time.
• Psychological Factors: Psychological factors such as stress, trauma, anxiety, or depression contribute to kratom addiction. Individuals use kratom as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional distress or escape from negative feelings, leading to psychological dependence. According to Esmaeelzadeh, S.’s 2018 study, ‘The association between depression, anxiety, and substance use among Canadian post-secondary students.’, students dealing with depression and anxiety are more likely to engage in substance use as a way to cope with their feelings.
• Social and Environmental Influences: Social factors, including peer pressure, social acceptance of kratom use, and easy accessibility of kratom products, influence addictive behaviors. Exposure to environments where kratom use is normalized or encouraged increases the likelihood of developing addiction.
• Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders: People with underlying mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or chronic pain, turn to kratom as a self-medication strategy. This creates a cycle of dependence and addiction as individuals rely on kratom to manage their symptoms.
• Trauma and Adverse Life Events: Experiencing trauma, abuse, or significant life stressors present substance use disorders, including kratom addiction. Traumatic experiences drive individuals to seek relief or numbness through substance use, leading to addiction as a maladaptive coping mechanism.
• Reinforcement and Conditioning: The pleasurable effects of Kratom, such as euphoria, relaxation, and pain relief, reinforce addictive behaviors. Positive reinforcement from these effects precipitates repeated use and the development of addiction patterns.
• Early Exposure and Use: Early exposure to substance use, including Kratom, during adolescence or young adulthood, augments the risk of addiction later in life. Early initiation of substance use alters brain development and accelerates vulnerability to addiction.

According to Smith, K. E.’s 2022 study, ‘Social, psychological, and substance use characteristics of U.S. adults who use kratom: Initial findings from an online, crowdsourced study.’, found that individuals with a history of substance use disorders, particularly those using cannabidiol (3.73x more likely), psychedelics (3.39x more likely), and nonmedical prescription opioids (1.72x more likely), were at higher risk. Additional risk factors included pre-existing conditions like chronic pain (31.7% vs 21.9%), anxiety, depression, and childhood trauma. Socioeconomic factors also played a role, with users more likely to be younger, male, unpartnered, and have lower incomes. The pharmacological properties of kratom, containing over 40 alkaloids with opioid-like effects, contribute to its addiction potential, though the study suggests that the use of other substances remains the strongest predictor of kratom use.

What Are the Effects of Kratom Addiction?

The effects of Kratom addiction include negative impacts on an individual’s physical health, mental well-being, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Here are the effects commonly associated with Kratom addiction:

Physical Health Effects of Kratom Addiction:

Physical health effects of kratom addiction include gastrointestinal disturbances, significant changes in appetite patterns, severe liver complications, breathing difficulties, and dangerous cardiovascular symptoms.

Here are the common physical health effects of kratom addiction:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: Gastrointestinal problems include constipation, stomach cramps, and nausea. Kratom causes these issues by slowing down digestive motility and irritating the stomach lining through its interaction with opioid receptors in the gut. According to Striley, C. W.’s 2022 study, ‘Health Effects Associated With Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) and Polysubstance Use: A Narrative Review.’, 14.7% of adult users reported experiencing nausea, while 12.9% indicated that they had encountered vomiting.
• Appetite Changes: Appetite changes manifest as weight loss or fluctuations in hunger levels. Kratom disrupts appetite regulation by altering neurotransmitter activity in the brain, particularly serotonin and dopamine pathways.
• Liver Health: Liver damage or abnormalities in liver function tests occur due to oxidative stress and inflammation. According to Hossain, R.’s 2023 study, ‘A Critical Review of the Neuropharmacological Effects of Kratom: An Insight from the Functional Array of Identified Natural Compounds.’, kratom metabolism occurs primarily in the liver, involving CYP450 enzymes and UDP-glucuronosyl transferases. Kratom alkaloid extract has been shown to inhibit several CYP enzymes, including CYP3A4, CYP2D6, and CYP2C9. The main alkaloid, mitragynine, is metabolized into O-demethylated and mono-oxidated metabolites. These CYP450 interactions result in variability in drug metabolism, potential toxicity from genetic variants, and drug interactions with medications that share these metabolic pathways. Specific concerns exist for drugs with narrow therapeutic windows, such as carbamazepine, theophylline, digoxin, warfarin, and phenytoin. Consequently, kratom should not be taken with these medications, and caution is advised for individuals with neurologic conditions or those on neurologic medications, as monitoring is necessary when combining substances that affect CYP450 enzymes.
• Respiratory Concerns: Respiratory issues such as difficulty breathing or chest discomfort arise from kratom’s suppression of the central nervous system. Kratom activates mu-opioid receptors in the brainstem, which reduces respiratory function at high doses.
• Cardiovascular Risks: Cardiovascular complications like elevated heart rate and high blood pressure result from kratom’s stimulatory effects. Kratom increases adrenaline and noradrenaline release, straining the cardiovascular system and raising the risk of hypertension or arrhythmias. According to Striley, C. W.’s 2022 study, ‘Health Effects Associated With Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) and Polysubstance Use: A Narrative Review.’, 22.5% of adults using kratom alone reported experiencing tachycardia, a condition characterized by an increased heart rate. Furthermore, the findings revealed that 36.8% of adults aged 60 to 69 years reported various cardiovascular effects, while a striking 51.9% of adults aged 70 and older experienced similar issues.

Psychological Effects of Kratom Addiction:

Psychological effects of kratom addiction include severe mood swings, heightened anxiety, persistent depression, reduced cognitive function, and psychotic episodes.

Here are the common psychological effects of kratom addiction:

• Mood Instability: Mood instability, characterized by mood swings, irritability, and emotional fluctuations, occurs when kratom disrupts neurotransmitter balance in the brain, particularly the serotonin and dopamine systems. According to Eggleston, W.’s 2019 study, ‘Kratom Use and Toxicities in the United States.’, kratom exposure resulted in several mental and cognitive effects. Agitation was the most common effect in 18.6% of cases, while confusion occurred in 8.1% of cases. More severe mental effects included hallucinations in 4.8% of cases. Additionally, drowsiness was reported in 13.6% of cases.
• Anxiety Disorders: Anxiety disorders, including panic attacks and heightened anxiety levels, result from kratom’s overstimulation of the central nervous system and its interaction with stress-related pathways. 

According to Vento, A. E.’s 2021 study, ‘Case report: Treatment of kratom use disorder with a classical tricyclic antidepressant.’, kratom use and its withdrawal result in a complex array of anxiety-related symptoms, including both psychological and physical manifestations. These typically present as free-floating anxiety accompanied by somatic symptoms like tachycardia and sweating, along with psychomotor agitation and emotional lability. This is further evidenced by documented cases, including a 27-year-old patient with pre-existing anxiety and ADHD who experienced complications from combined kratom and opioid use, requiring anti-anxiety medication intervention. The report emphasizes that withdrawal from kratom commonly produces moderate anxiety symptoms, which is particularly challenging for those attempting to quit regular use.

• Depressive Symptoms: Depressive symptoms or worsening of existing depression arise when kratom depletes neurotransmitters like serotonin after prolonged use or withdrawal.
• Cognitive Impairment: Cognitive impairment, such as difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making, stems from kratom’s interference with brain function and its sedative effects at higher doses. 

According to Yunusa, S.’s 2024 study, ‘Mitragynine (Kratom)-Withdrawal behaviour and cognitive impairments be ameliorated by an epigenetic mechanism.’, kratom withdrawal induces cognitive impairments through three main mechanisms: (1) withdrawal after 14-day mitragynine treatment causes dose-dependent impairments in passive avoidance learning tasks, particularly at doses of 5-10 mg/kg/day, (2) it reduces hippocampal field excitatory postsynaptic potential and affects both basal synaptic transmission and long-term potentiation while altering epigenetic markers, and (3) these cognitive deficits be reversed using HDAC inhibitor SAHA, which helps normalize epigenetic regulation and improve hippocampal function, though this treatment is specifically effective for mitragynine withdrawal but not morphine withdrawal.

• Severe Psychosis: Severe psychosis or hallucinations in extreme cases occur when kratom’s psychoactive alkaloids overactivate certain neural pathways, leading to dissociation and perceptual distortions. According to Baez Nunez, M.’s 2022 study, ‘Kratom’s rising role in the potential exacerbation of mental health disorders: A case report and review of the literature.’, kratom exacerbates pre-existing conditions, particularly triggering manic episodes and psychosis in individuals with bipolar disorder due to its effects on dopamine, serotonin, and adrenergic receptors. Additionally, kratom is not detected in routine toxicology screens, complicating its identification in cases of substance use. Users consuming over 237 mg of mitragynine daily face a higher risk of severe dependence, with adverse effects most common at doses exceeding 8 g taken 4-5 times daily. This risk is particularly pronounced in individuals with a history of substance use disorders, who experience significant withdrawal symptoms.

Social and Relationship Effects of Kratom Addiction:

Social and relationship effects of kratom addiction include strained family bonds, frequent conflicts with loved ones, and withdrawal from social activities, leading to disrupted personal connections and isolation.

Here are the common social and relationship effects of kratom addiction:

• Neglect of Responsibilities: Neglect of responsibilities, such as family, social, or occupational duties, occurs when kratom use prioritizes drug-seeking behavior over daily obligations due to its addictive and distracting effects.
• Relationship Conflict: Relationship conflict, including tension and strained interactions with friends and family, arises when kratom use leads to behavioral changes, mood instability, or arguments about substance use.
• Social Isolation: Social isolation and withdrawal from activities or hobbies result from kratom’s impact on motivation, energy levels, and preference for solitary use over social engagement.

What Are The Symptoms Of Kratom Withdrawal?

The symptoms of kratom withdrawal include muscle aches, extreme tiredness, sleep problems, and digestive issues. Users commonly experience physical discomfort like tremors, fever-like symptoms, and respiratory changes such as watery eyes and runny nose. Emotional challenges during withdrawal manifest as anxiety, mood swings, and strong urges to use kratom again.

Here are the common symptoms of kratom withdrawal:

• Myalgia: Muscle pain is one of the most common kratom withdrawal symptoms. 

According to Trakulsrichai, S.’s 2013 study, ‘Kratom abuse in Ramathibodi Poison Center, Thailand: a five-year experience.’, the most common withdrawal symptom was myalgia (muscle pain), affecting 33.3% of withdrawal cases, followed by insomnia, fatigue, and chest discomfort, each present in 16.67% of cases.

• Fatigue: Fatigue, characterized by significant low energy, results from the body’s adjustment to the absence of kratom’s stimulating effects during withdrawal.
• Insomnia: Insomnia, or difficulty sleeping, occurs as kratom withdrawal disrupts the central nervous system’s ability to regulate sleep cycles.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea and decreased appetite, arise when the digestive system reacts to the lack of kratom by increasing motility and reducing hunger signals.
• Respiratory Symptoms: Respiratory symptoms, including lacrimation (watery eyes) and rhinorrhea (runny nose), result from the body’s autonomic response during kratom detoxification. According to Eggleston, W.’s 2019 study, ‘Kratom Use and Toxicities in the United States’,  serious effects of kratom include respiratory depression in 2.8% of cases and coma in 2.3% of cases.
• Feverish Sensation: Feverish sensations, such as feeling feverish or experiencing hot flashes, manifest due to the body’s stress response and thermoregulation changes during withdrawal.
• Tremors and Chills: Tremors and chills, physical symptoms of withdrawal, occur as the nervous system becomes hyperactive in the absence of kratom’s calming effects.
• Cravings: Cravings, a strong desire to consume kratom again, reflect the substance’s influence on reward pathways and its addictive potential.

How Is Kratom Addiction Treated?

Kratom addiction is treated through a collective approach that addresses physical dependence, psychological factors, and behavioral patterns associated with addiction. Here are the main treatments used for Kratom addiction:

Medical Detoxification: Supervised medical detoxification is the first step in treating kratom addiction. Medical professionals monitor withdrawal symptoms and provide medications or supportive care to manage discomfort and ensure safety during the detox process.

According to Bin Abdullah M. F. I. L.’s 2020 study, ‘Kratom Dependence and Treatment Options: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature.’, the clinical management of kratom detoxification is achieved through intravenous clonidine alone or combination therapy using oral dihydrocodeine and lofexidine for inpatient treatment. However, sublingual buprenorphine-naloxone (Suboxone) has emerged as the primary treatment option, showing promise both as a detoxification agent and for maintenance replacement therapy.

Behavioral Therapies: Behavioral therapies are essential components of addiction treatment. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing (MI) help individuals:

• Identify and change addictive behaviors and thought patterns
• Develop coping skills to manage cravings, stress, and triggers
• Address underlying issues contributing to addiction, such as trauma or co-occurring mental health disorders

Support Groups: Participating in support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Kratom Anonymous (KA), or other peer support programs provides valuable peer support, encouragement, and accountability during recovery. These groups offer a sense of community, shared experiences, and practical strategies for maintaining sobriety.

Holistic Approaches: Holistic therapies and complementary interventions enhance overall well-being and support addiction recovery. These include:

• Mindfulness-based practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises
• Nutrition counseling and dietary changes to support physical health and recovery
• Exercise programs and physical activities to promote mental and physical wellness
• Stress-reduction techniques, relaxation strategies, and creative therapies

Education and Relapse Prevention: Education about kratom addiction, its effects, and strategies for relapse prevention is important for individuals in recovery. Learning about triggers, coping mechanisms, and healthy lifestyle habits, and developing a relapse prevention plan support individuals to maintain sobriety and navigate challenges in the long term.

Family and Social Support: Involving family members, loved ones, and supportive social networks in the recovery process ameliorates outcomes and grants additional sources of encouragement, understanding, and accountability.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): In some cases, medications are used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for Kratom addiction. Medications such as buprenorphine, naltrexone, or clonidine help reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery. Nonetheless, the use of medications in Kratom addiction treatment is carefully considered and monitored by healthcare professionals.

According to Hassan, R., Sreenivasan, S., Müller, C. P., & Hassan, Z. (2021), “Methadone, Buprenorphine, and Clonidine Attenuate Mitragynine Withdrawal in Rats” was published in Frontiers in Pharmacology. This study investigated the effectiveness of methadone, buprenorphine, and clonidine in alleviating withdrawal symptoms from chronic mitragynine exposure, the main psychoactive component of kratom. Researchers induced withdrawal behavior in rats and administered the medications over four days. The severity of withdrawal was assessed using the Subjective Opiate Withdrawal Scale (SOWS) and the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS). The findings revealed that all three medications significantly reduced withdrawal symptoms without causing major toxicity, suggesting their potential as effective treatments for kratom dependence in humans.

Are There Natural Alternatives To Kratom For Pain Management And Mood Enhancement?

Yes, several natural alternatives exist for pain management and mood enhancement, such as herbal supplements, mindfulness practices, physical exercise, and lifestyle modifications. Consulting healthcare providers to explore safe and effective alternatives.

What Are The Early Signs Of Kratom Addiction?

Early signs of Kratom addiction include a noticeable increase in usage and dependence on the substance to function normally throughout the day. Users start consuming Kratom more frequently or in higher doses than intended. Other early signs include preoccupation with obtaining and using Kratom, neglect of social and professional responsibilities, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and physical discomfort when not using the substance.

How Does Kratom Addiction Impact Mental Health?

Kratom addiction impacts mental health by creating increased anxiety, depression, or mood swings as a result of regular Kratom use. The substance alters brain chemistry, leading to dependency and affecting the natural balance of neurotransmitters, which exacerbate existing mental health issues or trigger new ones. Additionally, the stress of managing an addiction contributes to emotional distress and social isolation, further impacting an individual’s mental health.

According to Bowe, A.’s 2020 study, ‘A Complex Case of Kratom Dependence, Depression, and Chronic Pain in Opioid Use Disorder: Effects of Buprenorphine in Clinical Management.’, kratom’s primary mental effects include worsening depression and anxiety, coupled with the development of opioid-like dependence. Users experience tolerance build-up and withdrawal symptoms, leading to psychological distress. Treatment with buprenorphine-naloxone reverses these mental effects, as demonstrated by the complete resolution of depression and anxiety symptoms within 4 months.

How Do Withdrawal Symptoms Of Kratom Compare To Those Of Marijuana?

Withdrawal symptoms from Kratom and marijuana vary significantly due to the substances’ different effects on the brain and body. Kratom withdrawal symptoms are more physically intense, reflecting its interaction with opioid receptors. These include muscle aches, insomnia, irritability, aggression, emotional changes, runny nose, and sweating. In contrast, marijuana addiction withdrawal symptoms tend to be less severe and more psychological in nature, including mood swings, cravings, restlessness, sleep difficulties, and in some cases, depression.

How Is Kratom Addiction Treatment Different From Opioid Addiction Treatment?

Kratom addiction treatment differs from opioid addiction treatment in several key ways, despite both substances acting on similar brain receptors. The primary differences emerge from Kratom’s unique properties and varying legal status across regions. While opioid addiction treatment typically relies on medication-assisted approaches like methadone or buprenorphine, Kratom addiction treatment emphasizes behavioral therapies and support groups. Nevertheless, both treatment approaches share common elements, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and relapse prevention strategies that have proven effective for opioid addiction and Kratom dependency alike.