Kratom Withdrawal Timeline, Symptoms, and Treatment by Rehab Recovery Centers

Kratom is a botanical supplement with psychoactive properties that is derived from the leaves of the tropical Mitragyna speciosa tree that is native throughout Southeast Asia. The herb has risen in popularity in recent years and is commonly sold in smoke shops and gas stations.

When smoked, eaten, or brewed into a tea, kratom’s powerful alkaloids produce mood-altering and pain-relieving effects. In high doses, the effects can mimic those of prescription opioids. The opioid-like properties are so evident that some people use kratom to try and detox from opioids.[1]

While there are legitimate uses for the herbal supplement, long-term daily use can lead to physical dependence. Those who develop physical dependence will experience symptoms of withdrawal when they stop taking the substance. The kratom withdrawal timeline can vary from one person to the next, but it usually lasts between 3-10 days and produces flu-like symptoms.

Symptoms of Kratom Withdrawal

Kratom withdrawal closely resembles heroin withdrawal. While symptoms may be different from one person to the next, withdrawal often involves:[2]

  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Cramping
  • Cravings
  • Depression
  • Diarrhea
  • Dysphoria (general sense of unease or unhappiness)
  • Fatigue
  • Hot flashes
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle aches
  • Mood swings
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Restless legs
  • Runny nose
  • Sweating
  • Tremors
  • Watering eyes

How Long Does Kratom Withdrawal Last?

The duration of the kratom withdrawal timeline varies depending on how long the substance was used and how much of the substance was used on a regular basis. Other individual health factors can also determine the severity and longevity of symptoms, including:

  • Age
  • Weight
  • Gender
  • Metabolism
  • Method of use (drinking tea, smoking leaves, chewing leaves, etc.)
  • Body fat percentage
  • Co-occurring physical or mental health conditions
  • Polysubstance abuse

Symptoms typically appear within 12 to 48 hours after the last dose. In mild to moderate users, symptoms may only last three days. However, more frequent heavy users may experience symptoms for up to 10 days.[3]

Kratom Withdrawal Timeline

While the exact timeline of kratom withdrawal can vary, it is similar to that of opioid withdrawal. An approximate timeline is as follows:

First 12-24 Hours

Withdrawal symptoms usually begin 12 to 24 hours after the last dose of kratom. Initial symptoms involve sweating, yawning, watery eyes, and anxiety. These symptoms start off as mild but escalate as the days go on. Other symptoms that may develop during this time period include muscle, joint, bone, and abdominal pain as well as nausea.

Days 2-3

During days 2 and 3, the existing symptoms may continue and other symptoms like cravings, depression, tremors, and visual distortions may set in. People may also experience insomnia, poor appetite, or dehydration. Peak symptoms usually occur between days 2 and 3.

Days 4-7

The intensity of pain and discomfort will slowly decrease. Mild to moderate users may experience relief from the majority of their symptoms, while heavy users may still experience symptoms of withdrawal.

Days 7-10

Between days 7 and 10, the majority of acute physical withdrawal symptoms will subside. Cravings, depression, anxiety, and insomnia may persist.

10+ Days

Withdrawal symptoms that persist after 10 days are known as post-acute withdrawal. These symptoms include anxiety, depression, and cravings. Post-acute symptoms may fluctuate and can last for several weeks or months, but they can be effectively managed with the help of a substance abuse treatment program.

Treatment Options for Kratom Withdrawal

While the kratom withdrawal timeline is unpleasant, it is rarely dangerous or life-threatening. But, since the drug is similar to opioids, it can produce symptoms that are difficult to cope with alone. Kratom withdrawal can cause extreme discomfort and intense cravings that can increase the risk for relapse.

People struggling with kratom addiction can benefit from detoxing in a medical detox program. Medical detox centers offer supervised, comfortable processes that can help people withdraw from substances safely. During detox, patients are evaluated to determine their unique needs, supervised during the detox process, prescribed medications to alleviate symptoms of withdrawal, and connected to local addiction treatment facilities for further care.

Other ways to cope with kratom withdrawal include:

  • Slowly taper yourself down to lower doses of kratom until you no longer experience symptoms of withdrawal when you stop using
  • Engage in self-care by taking a shower, going for a walk, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet
  • Use over-the-counter medications such as sleep aids, pain relievers, or anti-diarrhea meds
  • Keep yourself busy so you can distract yourself from drug cravings
  • Talk to a counselor or a doctor about professional treatment options

Find Kratom Detox and Treatment Near You

Kratom is habit-forming and can cause symptoms of physical withdrawal if a person suddenly stops taking the supplement. If you or someone you know has been abusing kratom and are struggling with addiction, our team at Rehab Recovery Center can help. Our team is available 24/7 for free, confidential assessments that connect you to the right recovery center for you. Call now to speak with one of our qualified addiction specialists.

References:

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7203303/
  2. https://wmjonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/115/1/49.pdf
  3. https://www.dovepress.com/current-perspectives-on-the-impact-of-kratom-use-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-SAR

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