Duration of Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
Kratom withdrawal symptoms typically last between 7 to 14 days for most individuals, with acute symptoms peaking at 2-3 days after cessation and gradually resolving within two weeks, though some users may experience protracted withdrawal symptoms for up to 6 months.
Understanding Kratom Withdrawal Timeline
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) contains alkaloids that act on opioid receptors, primarily mitragynine and 7-OH-mitragynine, which can lead to physical dependence with regular use. The withdrawal timeline follows a predictable pattern:
Acute Withdrawal Phase (Days 1-7)
- Initial symptoms (24-48 hours): Begin within 24 hours of last use
- Peak intensity (48-72 hours): Symptoms reach maximum severity
- Early resolution (3-7 days): Gradual reduction in physical symptoms
Subacute Withdrawal Phase (Days 7-14)
- Most physical symptoms substantially diminish
- Psychological symptoms may persist
Protracted Withdrawal (Beyond 14 days)
- Some users experience lingering psychological symptoms
- May include cravings, mood disturbances, and sleep issues
- Can last up to 6 months in heavy, long-term users 1
Common Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
Physical Symptoms
- Muscle spasms and pain
- Sleep difficulties
- Watery eyes/nose
- Hot flashes and fever
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- Tremors
- Sweating 2, 1
Psychological Symptoms
- Restlessness
- Tension and anxiety
- Irritability
- Sadness/depression
- Nervousness
- Cravings 1
Risk Factors for Severe Withdrawal
The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms are influenced by:
- Dosage: Users consuming ≥3 glasses of kratom per day have higher odds of developing severe dependence and withdrawal 1
- Duration of use: Longer periods of regular use (>6 months) correlate with more severe dependence 1
- Frequency of use: Daily users experience more pronounced withdrawal
- Individual factors: Genetics, concurrent medical conditions, and psychological factors
Clinical Implications
Research shows that over half of regular kratom users develop severe dependence problems, with 45% showing moderate dependence 1. The withdrawal syndrome shares similarities with opioid withdrawal but is generally considered less severe and shorter in duration 2.
For clinical management, approaches similar to those used for opioid withdrawal have proven effective:
- A reducing regimen of dihydrocodeine and lofexidine has been shown to effectively manage kratom withdrawal symptoms 2
- Supportive care including hydration and symptom management
- Monitoring for complications such as dehydration or severe psychological distress
Important Considerations
- Withdrawal symptoms from kratom appear to be primarily due to its short-acting opioid receptor agonist activity 2
- The average daily intake of mitragynine in regular users is approximately 276.5mg 1
- Unlike traditional opioids, kratom withdrawal carries a lower risk of respiratory depression 3
- However, kratom use has been associated with serious adverse effects including liver toxicity, seizures, and death, particularly when combined with other substances 3
Understanding the typical duration and pattern of kratom withdrawal symptoms can help clinicians and patients better prepare for and manage the cessation process.