Kratom Withdrawal: Duration, Symptoms, and Detoxification Research

The interest in Kratom, a plant from Southeast Asia, has increased lately because many believe it could offer health and recreational benefits. Yet, with more people trying it out, there’s worry about what happens if someone becomes dependent on it and then stops taking it. (1) Stopping could lead to various withdrawal symptoms including body pains and feeling sick, along with mental health struggles like feeling anxious or sad.

Both users of Kratom and those in healthcare need to understand these possible symptoms, how long they could last, and ways to manage them. Luckily, we are going to look closely into the details regarding the signs of withdrawal from Kratom, when these signs typically show up, and what research suggests for getting through this detox process safely.

Symptoms Of Kratom Withdrawal 

Kratom withdrawal, a condition emerging from the cessation of Kratom use, manifests through a spectrum of symptoms varying in severity from mild discomfort to acute physical and psychological distress. (2)

Several factors, including the duration and intensity of Kratom use before cessation, can influence the experience of these symptoms. (2)

Physical Symptoms

1. Fatigue: Individuals often report feeling unusually tired or drained, which may interfere with their daily activities.
2. Muscle Aches: Muscle soreness or pain is frequently mentioned, similar to what is experienced during the flu.
3. Nausea and Vomiting: This unsettling symptom range from mild nausea to severe vomiting, complicating nutrition and hydration efforts.
4. Sweating: Excessive sweating beyond normal levels, often accompanied by hot flashes or chills, has been noted.
5. Tremors: Some individuals experience shaking or tremors as part of their withdrawal process.

Psychological Symptoms

1. Anxiety: An increase in anxiety levels is commonly reported; this may include generalized anxiety or panic attacks.
2. Mood Swings: Emotional instability becomes apparent through rapid mood changes—from irritability to euphoria without clear triggers.
3. Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep plagues many going through kratom withdrawal, exacerbating daytime fatigue.
4.  Depression: Feelings ranging from general sadness to profound depression are frequent companions on the journey away from kratom dependency. (3)

In addition to these primary symptoms, individuals might also encounter cravings for Kratom as they navigate withdrawal—this psychological urge complicates recovery efforts. Still, it is a common hurdle across various substance withdrawals.

It is worth noting that each person’s body chemistry differs significantly, ensures there’s no one-size-fits-all timeline for experiencing these symptoms nor their resolution speed post-cessation; however, most find that within days to weeks after stopping Kratom use gradually sees an alleviation in symptom severity until complete remission occurs.

How To Alleviate Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms 

By adopting the right approaches and getting the necessary support, easing Kratom withdrawal symptoms is achievable. This can significantly speed up the recovery journey.

1. Staying Hydrated and Eating Well: Staying hydrated is vital because a lack of water can worsen withdrawal symptoms. It’s also beneficial to eat healthily during this time to aid your body in healing. Focus on including fruits, veggies, lean meats, and whole grains in your diet. 
2. Using Over-the-Counter Relief: To help with certain discomforts like muscle soreness, over-the-counter options are available. Medications such as ibuprofen, which belong to the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) category, could offer some relief from pain. (4)
3. Natural Remedies: Some individuals find relief from Kratom withdrawal symptoms through natural remedies. These may include:
   • Herbal teas: Chamomile tea may help soothe anxiety and promote relaxation, while ginger tea may alleviate nausea.
   • Dietary supplements: Magnesium supplements may help reduce muscle tension and promote better sleep during withdrawal.
4. Hot Baths or Showers: A hot bath or shower could temporarily relieve muscle aches and promote relaxation. Adding Epsom salts to the bathwater may further enhance muscle relaxation.
5. Exercise: Light physical activity, such as walking or gentle stretching exercises, may help alleviate withdrawal symptoms by promoting the release of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers and mood boosters.
6. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation techniques can help manage anxiety, stress, and other psychological symptoms associated with Kratom withdrawal.
7. Supportive Therapies: Seek support from friends, family, or a support group to help you cope with Kratom withdrawal symptoms. Sharing your experiences, thoughts and feelings with others who understand can provide emotional support and encouragement.
8. Professional Help: If you’re struggling to manage Kratom withdrawal symptoms on your own, consider seeking professional help. A healthcare provider or addiction specialist can offer personalized treatment options, including medications and therapy, to support your recovery journey.

Keep in mind that each person’s journey through Kratom withdrawal is different. What helps one person might not help another. It’s really important to pay attention to how your body feels, take good care of yourself, and get help if you need it to make it through withdrawal safely and well.

The General Timeline For Kratom Withdrawal 

Understanding what to expect during this period is best for preparation and peace of mind. While individual experiences may vary based on factors like usage patterns and personal health, having a broad overview provides a foundation upon which to build your strategy for navigating these challenges effectively.(5)

1. Onset of Symptoms (Day 1 to 3): Symptoms will generally start within 6 to 12 hours after the last Kratom dose. Early symptoms include the following and peak in severity around day 2 or 3:
   • Irritability
   • Anxiety
   • Muscle aches
   • Runny nose
   • Sweating
   • Insomnia
2. Peak Withdrawal Period (Day 3 to 5):
   1. Days 3 to 5 mark the peak of withdrawal symptoms. Psychological symptoms like depression, mood swings, and cravings are common. Symptoms intensify, including:
      • Nausea
      • Vomiting
      • Diarrhea
      • Abdominal cramps
      • Goosebumps (piloerection)
3. Gradual Improvement (Day 6 to 14): By the end of the first week, acute symptoms start to improve. Physical symptoms, such as muscle aches and gastrointestinal issues, lessen. Psychological symptoms may persist but generally become less severe.
4. Lingering Symptoms (Week 2 to 4): Some may experience lingering symptoms beyond the first week. These symptoms range in intensity and duration, including some mood disturbances, fatigue, sleep problems, and cravings.
5. Residual Effects (Beyond Week 4):Most acute symptoms resolve within weeks, but some may have lingering effects. Residual effects may include mood swings, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cravings. Individual experiences may vary widely based on factors like dosage, frequency of use, and overall health.

Individual Variability

The timeline provided is a general guideline; individual experiences may differ. Factors like dosage, frequency, duration of use, and mental health conditions could possibly influence withdrawal severity.

Detoxification and General Studies About Krantom

While fighting a serious opioid crisis that takes over 33,000 lives in America every year, there’s been a lot of debate about Kratom, a plant with mind-altering effects. Some doctors and people believe it could help lessen opioid addiction and pain. (6)

However, government groups warn it might be harmful to mental health and could lead to problems like psychosis or addiction. In 2016, the DEA thought about making having or selling Kratom illegal but then decided not to. (7) (8)

Recently, researchers from the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) and the University of British Columbia did a big study reviewing 57 years’ worth of science from around the world on Kratom. They published their findings in the Drug and Alcohol Dependence Journal, hoping to clear up wrong ideas about Kratom. This is one of the biggest reviews ever done on how Kratom affects mental health. (8)

It shows that Kratom might actually be safer than opioids for managing pain without as many risks and could even improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Get the Help You Need Today 

The main goal of the Kratom Research Institute is to help people learn all about Kratom. This way, they can make smart choices and use it safely if they decide it’s right for them. Kratom might help with pain without making you feel tired, give you more energy for your workouts, and help you bounce back faster after exercising. It could also make you feel less stressed or down.

But remember, Kratom isn’t a magic solution for everything. While getting really hooked on it isn’t very likely, getting used to its effects is pretty common over time. Ultimately, thinking carefully about both the good and not-so-good sides will help anyone considering doing so wisely. 

References

1. Macko, E., Weis, C., & Ganesan, S. (2015). Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa): A growing problem with significant implications. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26640804/
2. Wong, A., & Cheung, H. (2023). Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) use, regulation, and effects. PubMed Central. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10311168/
3. Madhukar H. Trivedi, M.D. (2006). Pharmacological properties of kratom: Potential medical and legal implications. PubMed Central. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC486942/
4. Ida Ghlichloo; Valerie Gerriets.(2019). NSAIDs and their use in pain management. In National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547742/#:~:text=NSAIDs%20are%20typically%20divided%20into,meloxicam%2C%20piroxicam)%20anthranilic%20acids%20(
5. Moore, D. (2015). The role of NSAIDs in clinical practice. In National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310652/
6. Innov Clin Neurosci. (2018). Patterns of kratom use and health impact in the US—Results from an online survey. PubMed Central. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6040724/
7. Gerald Gianutsos, PhD, JD (2021, August 20). The DEA changes its mind on kratom. U.S. Pharmacist. https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/the-dea-changes-its-mind-on-kratom
8. University of Rochester Medical Center. (2023, March 15). Study pokes holes in kratom’s bad rap. URMC Newsroom. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/study-pokes-holes-in-kratoms-bad-rap