Kratom - Frequently Asked Questions

Kratom is an herbal substance made from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree called Mitragyna speciosa. It is often sold in the United States as a powder, capsules, teas, or concentrated extracts. Although it is sometimes marketed as a natural supplement, kratom contains active compounds that can affect the brain and body in powerful ways.

Kratom’s effects depend on the dose. At lower amounts, it may produce stimulant-like effects such as increased energy or alertness. At higher doses, kratom can have sedative or opioid-like effects, including relaxation and pain relief.

Kratom interacts with opioid receptors in the brain, which is one reason it may lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and addictive patterns of use over time.

Kratom is not classified as a prescription opioid, but it does act on some of the same brain receptors as opioids. Because of these opioid-like effects, kratom can carry similar risks, including tolerance, physical dependence, and withdrawal.

Health authorities, including the FDA, have warned that kratom is not approved for medical use and may carry risks. Because kratom products are not well regulated, the strength and purity can vary widely. Some products may also be contaminated with other substances, increasing the potential for harmful effects.

Yes. Kratom can be addictive, especially when used regularly or in high doses. Over time, individuals may develop tolerance, meaning they need more kratom to achieve the same effects. Continued use can lead to physical dependence and difficulty stopping without support.

Reported side effects of kratom may include:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Constipation

• Drowsiness

• Increased heart rate

• Agitation or anxiety

• Confusion

• Risk of dependence with ongoing use

Side effects are more likely with high-dose or long-term use, especially with concentrated kratom extracts.

People who stop using kratom after heavy or prolonged use may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as:

• Irritability or mood swings

• Anxiety

• Insomnia

• Muscle aches

• Sweating or chills

• Nausea

• Cravings

Withdrawal can be uncomfortable, which is why professional detox support may be helpful for some individuals.

Withdrawal symptoms may begin within 12–48 hours after stopping use and can last several days to a week or longer, depending on how much kratom was used and for how long. A supervised detox environment can help manage symptoms safely and reduce relapse risk.

In some cases, kratom use has been linked to serious health effects such as liver injury, seizures, or cardiovascular problems, especially when taken in high doses or combined with other substances. Risks may increase with unregulated or contaminated products.

Kratom is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance in the U.S., but laws vary by state and locality. Some areas restrict or ban kratom. Regardless of legality, kratom still carries potential health and addiction risks.

Some individuals use kratom to try to manage pain, anxiety, or opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, self-treatment with kratom can lead to dependence and does not replace professional medical care. Its effects can be unpredictable, especially with long-term use.

While kratom overdose is different from opioid overdose, taking large amounts of kratom may lead to dangerous effects such as severe nausea, rapid heartbeat, agitation, confusion, or seizures. Risks increase significantly when kratom is combined with other substances, especially alcohol, opioids, or sedatives. Any severe reaction should be treated as a medical emergency.

Yes. Kratom extracts and liquid shots are much more concentrated than traditional powder or tea. Because they deliver higher doses of active compounds, they may increase the risk of dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and adverse health effects. Many people develop stronger addiction patterns after using concentrated products.

Yes. Mixing kratom with alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, or other substances can increase the risk of dangerous side effects, including sedation, breathing problems, and overdose complications. Combining substances is one of the most common factors in serious kratom-related medical emergencies.

Some people assume kratom is safer because it is marketed as “natural,” but natural does not always mean safe. Kratom still affects opioid receptors, can cause dependence, and is not regulated for purity or potency. Using kratom without medical supervision can still lead to serious health risks.

Kratom is not typically included in standard drug panels, but specialized tests can detect it. Individuals in treatment programs, legal settings, or workplace monitoring should be aware that kratom use may still be identified depending on the type of screening.

Some individuals use kratom in an attempt to self-manage opioid withdrawal, but health authorities do not recommend this approach. Kratom itself can lead to dependence and withdrawal, and professional medical detox is a safer and more effective option for opioid recovery.

Signs of problematic kratom use may include:

• Needing more kratom to feel effects

• Cravings or inability to stop

• Withdrawal symptoms when not using

• Continued use despite negative consequences

• Using kratom daily or in secret

• Difficulty functioning without it

If these signs are present, professional support may be beneficial.

Yes. Some individuals experience increased anxiety, irritability, mood swings, or depression with kratom use, especially with long-term or high-dose consumption. For those with underlying mental health conditions, kratom may worsen symptoms.

In some cases, yes. While mild kratom dependence may be manageable with outpatient support, individuals with heavy use, withdrawal symptoms, or relapse patterns may benefit from structured treatment such as residential care, therapy, and relapse prevention planning.

Cornerstone can help determine the appropriate level of care through an individualized assessment.

The safest first step is to speak with a medical or addiction professional, especially if withdrawal symptoms are present. Stopping abruptly can be uncomfortable and may lead to relapse. Cornerstone’s admissions team can help guide individuals toward detox or treatment options based on their needs.

Yes. With the right combination of clinical support, therapy, relapse prevention planning, and aftercare, long-term recovery from kratom dependence is possible. Many individuals successfully rebuild healthy, substance-free lives through structured treatment and ongoing support.

Yes. Cornerstone of Southern California provides comprehensive addiction treatment services for individuals struggling with kratom dependence or substance use disorders. Treatment plans are individualized based on each person’s needs and level of care.

Cornerstone offers a full continuum of care, which may include:

• Medically supervised detoxification

• Residential treatment with 24/7 support

• Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

• Dual diagnosis care for mental health and addiction

• Evidence-based therapy (CBT, group counseling, family support)

• Relapse prevention planning and aftercare services

These programs are designed to help clients build long-term recovery beyond detox alone.

Treatment at Cornerstone may include evidence-based approaches such as:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Individual and group counseling

• Family education and involvement

• Relapse prevention strategies

• Life skills development

Therapy helps individuals understand triggers, manage cravings, and create healthier coping tools.

Yes. Many people struggling with kratom addiction also experience anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges. Cornerstone offers dual diagnosis treatment to address substance use and mental health together in an integrated way.

Recovery is a long-term process. After completing residential or outpatient treatment, Cornerstone provides aftercare planning and continued support resources to help clients maintain sobriety and prevent relapse.

Signs that professional help may be needed include:

• Inability to stop using kratom

• Withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit

• Increasing tolerance or daily use

• Cravings and compulsive behavior

• Negative impact on work, health, or relationships

An admissions specialist can help determine the appropriate next steps.

If you or a loved one is struggling with kratom use, Cornerstone of Southern California is available 24/7. Call (714) 547-5375 to speak confidentially with an admissions specialist about treatment options, insurance verification, and recovery support.