How to Withdraw from Kratom
In the last 10 years, the consumption of kratom has increased dramatically in the US. With that, many are searching for how to withdraw from kratom safely and effectively. When abused or used recreationally, the plant-derived substance can lead to physical dependence. The popularity of this substance has led to increasing numbers of addiction and overdose. According to the CDC, researchers have since begun screening for kratom in cases of overdose deaths.
With regular use, the brain will be able to adapt to the presence of kratom. This builds tolerance and dependence on the drug. When they suddenly cut back or quit using kratom, users are most likely going to experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
Kratom is known to have withdrawal symptoms that are considered mild compared to opioids. When it comes to kratom, professional medical supervision can provide the safest and most effective approach to withdrawal management. Healthcare providers are able to monitor vital signs, manage any unexpected complications and administer the appropriate medications to help alleviate severe symptoms.
What is Kratom?
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree that is native to Southeast Asia. It contains two active compounds: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and can produce both stimulant and depressant effects depending on the dosage.
Because of the effects, withdrawal can feel like a mix of body aches, restlessness, mood changes, insomnia and cravings. The rising popularity of this substance is due to people using it to treat pain, increase energy, treat mental health symptoms and manage opioid withdrawal.
Kratom is typically used in two ways. It can be consumed in powder form by swallowing capsules. It can also be consumed by brewing a tea with the leaves of the plant from which it is derived. In other cases, kratom is mixed in with other substances and smoked or taken with food and drink. Using kratom outside the scope of approved medical treatments can increase the risk for dangerous side effects.
How to withdraw from Kratom safely
The safest way to withdraw from kratom is under the guidance of a medical professional through medical detox. This is especially important if users take the drug daily, take high amounts, or have substance use concerns. Kratom products are not FDA-approved to treat any type of medical condition and regular use can lead to tolerance, dependence and withdrawal symptoms when use is significantly reduced or stopped.
Withdrawal from kratom is known to be less severe than withdrawal from similar types of substances like opioids. One survey found that fewer than 10% of kratom users experienced withdrawal symptoms at all. Despite its low numbers, withdrawing without medical attention can lead to very uncomfortable symptoms that impact daily responsibilities.
Common Kratom withdrawal symptoms
Kratom withdrawal symptoms can vary. Some people experience mild discomfort for a short period of time, while others can have symptoms that interfere with work, sleep and daily responsibilities. Factors that influence withdrawal include how often you take kratom, how long you have used kratom, the strength of the kratom product and whether or not other substances like alcohol, opioids and stimulants are also involved.
- Muscle and body aches
- Sweating, chills and watery eyes
- Nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps
- Insomnia and vivid dreams
- Restless leg
- Fatigue and low energy
- Anxiety, irritability, depression, agitation and mood swings
- Cravings to use kratom
- Difficulty concentrating
- Anhedonia – inability to feel pleasure
Withdrawal symptoms are a sign that your body is trying to adjust to a new baseline. It is important to reduce avoidable stressors, stay hydrated and seek out professional help with dealing with kratom withdrawal. Medical support can be vital when dealing with severe diarrhea, chest pain, confusion or a return to substance use.
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What is the duration of Kratom Withdrawal?
There is no definitive answer for how long it takes to withdraw from kratom for each person. Factors that can influence severity and duration of withdrawal include:
- Long-term and high-dose users can experience more intense withdrawal symptoms that last longer
- Those who experience mental health disorders can face increased risk of complications with withdrawal
In general, it typically follows the timeline that begins at about 6 to 24 hours after drug use has stopped and can last anywhere from several days to several weeks.
Some feel the worst symptoms over several days. Most people will experience peak symptoms within 2 to 3 days. Others may notice sleeping problems, cravings, anxiety and fatigue lingering for even longer.
Withdrawal Timeline
- Early adjustment. Between 6 to 24 hours when withdrawal begins, symptoms like cravings, anxiety, restlessness, upset stomach and sleep issues can occur.
- Peak discomfort. The physical symptoms are the most noticeable between 1 to 4 days. Mood swings can feel particularly strong during this intense adjustment period.
- Stabilization. Some people might continue to experience symptoms while most others gradually become easier to manage.
Tapering and Professional Care
Those who search “how to withdraw from kratom” online typically want to know whether tapering is the best solution compared to stopping cold turkey. A gradual reduction can be easier to manage, but the right approach will depend on your health history, current amount of the substance you are using and your risk of returning to drug use. Kratom products vary in potency, so it is critical to create a medical taper plan with the guidance of a medical professional.
Tapering strategies involve a gradual reduction in kratom use over time. This approach minimizes the severity of withdrawal and improves success rates of drug cessation. A tapering plan tailored to your unique situation increases the likelihood of a successful detox.
Professional help can also include:
- Assessment of your kratom use
- Support for nausea, insomnia, and anxiety when appropriate
- Counseling or therapy to address psychological triggers and emotional aspects
- Treatment for co-occurring substance use or mental health conditions
- Follow-up care after acute withdrawal
- Suggestions of lifestyle modifications to help manage symptoms such as regular exercise, proper nutrition, stress management and support groups
Reach out to Hotel California by the Sea
We specialize in treating addiction and other co-occurring disorders, such as PTSD. Our Admissions specialists are available to walk you through the best options for treating your addiction.
Treatment for Kratom Withdrawal
Kratom withdrawal can be very uncomfortable. But it is more manageable with preparation and help from support and medical guidance. If you are wondering how to withdraw from Kratom, start with safety, then understanding the symptoms and then planning for cravings. Getting help early on can also decrease the risk of returning to drug use.
Hotel California by the Sea provides treatment for substance use disorder as well as kratom dependence. We offer treatment at all levels of care including detox, residential, PHP and IOP. We utilize evidence-based methods such as CBT, DBT and EMDR therapy. Hotel California by the Sea is dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals in sobriety and overcome their addiction.
References:
https://recovery.com/resources/kratom-withdrawal
https://recoverycentersofamerica.com/blogs/kratom-withdrawal/
https://careplusnj.org/resources/news-events/dealing-with-kratom-withdrawal-what-you-need-to-know/
https://elevarebh.com/kratom-addiction/withdrawal/
https://optimahealing.com/blog/kratom-withdrawal-timeline/
https://www.psychiatrist.com/pcc/kratom-withdrawal-case-epidemiology-incidence-prevalence
