Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms, Detox & Treatment
Kratom withdrawal symptoms happen when an individual who becomes dependent on the drug stop taking it. Kratom is a tree from southeast Asia that can have euphoric effects on the human body and brain. Kratom’s components bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, which are activated by your receptors and are said to have several benefits, which include pain relief, increased energy, and increased focus. It has been used in many Asian countries for decades, but recently became popular in the United States.
What is Kratom and How is it Used?
People often use kratom to self-medicate for depression, anxiety, low energy, and even opioid use problems. Kratom is unregulated in the US and has been associated with several deaths since gaining popularity; however, the majority of the deaths that involved kratom also involved the use of other drugs.
Similar to several other drugs, the effects of kratom depend on the amount taken, the concentration, how it is ingested, and any underlying medical conditions. Those who use kratom in smaller doses often report stimulant-like effects. In higher doses, those who use kratom report opioid-like sedative effects.
Those who become dependent on kratom can feel uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms once they stop taking the substance and often times, an inpatient stay at a kratom detox center is often needed to get off of the substance for good.
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Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
Kratom withdrawal occurs when physical and mental symptoms begin after discontinuing the use of the drug. Even though kratom can cause opioid-like effects, kratom withdrawal may not be as severe as opioids. Symptoms of kratom withdrawal can be both physical and psychological.
Physical symptoms can include:
1. Muscle spasms
2. Diarrhea
3. Fever
4. Sweating
5. Aches and pains
6. Teary eyes
7. Runny nose
8. Insomnia
9. Tension
10. Abdominal pain
Psychological symptoms can include:
1. Mood swings
2. Agitation
3. Anger
4. Restlessness
5. Sleep issues
6. Sleep disturbances
7. Low mood
8. Depression
9. Anxiety
Kratom Withdrawal Timeline
The kratom withdrawal timeline is closely related to the level of dependence and length of kratom use. A general timeline of symptoms includes:
- Two to 12 Hours After Last Use: Flu-like symptoms appear. Depression and anxiety may also begin.
- One to Three Days After Last Use: At this point, symptoms usually peak. The risk of relapse can be higher at this time due to the discomfort of withdrawal.
- Four to Seven Days After Last Use: Symptoms begin to dissipate and the worst of symptoms will decrease in about a week. Mild symptoms including depression and anxiety can persist for weeks or months.
How Does Kratom Detox Work?
Kratom detox typically involves tapering off of the drug. Tapering is when you wean off the substance by reducing the amount within your body over a period of time. Tapering can lessen the potential of kratom withdrawal symptoms by giving the brain’s chemistry time to slowly regain its natural balance.
How Soon Can I Get Care?
Can I Detox From Kratom at Home?
Kratom withdrawal can be unpleasant; however, it is not known to be life-threatening. Detox from home is possible but not advised. Over-the-counter medications may help, however, the most effective way to abstain from relapsing on kratom while going through withdrawal is going to a medically-supervised detox. At a medical detox, professionals may be able to administer medications to help ease withdrawal symptoms and ensure you have no complications.
The Dangers of Kratom Withrawal
While the symptoms of kratom withdrawal are not known to be life-threatening, there can still be complications depending on each person. Some of these include:
- Dehydration – Nausea and vomiting can be dangerous if your fluids are not kept up.
- Mood Swings – Those going through withdrawal symptoms can experience mood swings and make decisions that could harm their health.
- Overdose – Due to physical withdrawal symptoms and cravings during this time, some people relapse and if other drugs are involved, can potentially overdose.
Kratom Detox + Treatment
Going through kratom detox is the first step in addiction recovery, but oftentimes it is not the only step. During drug detox, our medical professionals will assess you to understand your history as well as your needs. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use disorder and has become addicted to kratom, additional treatment to address mental health, behavioral health, and cravings may be in your best interest. There are severe different levels of care for addiction treatment, which include inpatient and outpatient treatment. All options of treatment will address the social, psychological, and biological needs of each client.
Is Kratom Detox Covered By Insurance?
Yes, typically kratom detox is covered by most major insurance providers. Verify your insurance now to get a free verification of benefits.
Find Help with Kratom Withdrawal Today!
If you or someone you love is struggling with kratom addiction and are ready to receive help, it is best to receive help from medical professionals to ensure minimizing the potential for severe symptoms and to be able to discuss the next steps in your treatment. If you are wanting to begin the journey of getting help and are looking for a safe environment with 24/7 care and staff to help with the continuum of care, please reach out to the admissions team at Detox ATL today.