Can an individual get addicted to kratom?

    Last Updated: October 25, 2023

    In short, it is possible. Limited research has found that chronic kratom use has been associated with dependence and opioid-like withdrawal. However, withdrawal after kratom seems to be more mild than opioid withdrawal. Withdrawal symptom severity seems to be dependent on the quantity and duration of kratom use. Symptoms can include mood disturbances (anxiety and depression), muscle spasms, pain, fever, and diarrhea. Chronic kratom users reported cravings for kratom and dependence on kratom to be able to function well throughout the day.[1][2][3]

    References

    1. ^Vicknasingam B, Narayanan S, Beng GT, Mansor SMThe informal use of ketum (Mitragyna speciosa) for opioid withdrawal in the northern states of peninsular Malaysia and implications for drug substitution therapy.Int J Drug Policy.(2010-Jul)
    2. ^Singh D, Narayanan S, Müller CP, Swogger MT, Rahim AA, Leong Bin Abdullah MFI, Vicknasingam BKSeverity of Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa Korth.) Psychological Withdrawal Symptoms.J Psychoactive Drugs.(2018)
    3. ^Singh D, Müller CP, Vicknasingam BKKratom (Mitragyna speciosa) dependence, withdrawal symptoms and craving in regular users.Drug Alcohol Depend.(2014-Jun-01)