Understanding Kratom Addiction

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical plant from Southeast Asia that has gained significant popularity in the United States. Sold legally in Charlotte and throughout North Carolina as a supplement in powders, capsules, and teas, many people initially use kratom believing it’s a safe, natural alternative to manage pain, anxiety, or even opioid withdrawal symptoms.

However, kratom’s primary active compounds—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—act as partial agonists at the brain’s opioid receptors. This means kratom produces effects similar to opioids: pain relief at higher doses, stimulation at lower doses, and critically, the potential for tolerance, dependence, and addiction.

Kratom Use in the United States

2M+ Americans use kratom annually
25-67% Of regular users meet addiction criteria
18x Higher opioid disorder rate among users

Is Kratom Addictive?

Yes. Research published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine found that 25.5% of kratom consumers meet diagnostic criteria for kratom use disorder (KUD), with tolerance and withdrawal being the most common symptoms. Among experienced, long-term users, this rate climbs to 66.7%.

The FDA has issued multiple warnings about kratom, categorizing it as a “drug of concern” with significant potential for abuse and dependence. While kratom advocates argue it’s safer than traditional opioids, the reality is that kratom can absolutely disrupt lives, drain finances, and create a dependence that’s difficult to break without professional help.

At Nova Transformations, we’ve seen firsthand how kratom addiction develops—often gradually and unexpectedly. What starts as occasional use for pain or energy can evolve into daily consumption, escalating doses, and eventually an inability to function normally without it.

Kratom Withdrawal: What to Expect

When someone dependent on kratom stops using, withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 12-48 hours and can last anywhere from 3 days to a week or more, depending on the severity of dependence. While kratom withdrawal is generally considered milder than heroin or prescription opioid withdrawal, it can still be intensely uncomfortable and challenging to manage alone.

The withdrawal experience is one reason why professional treatment makes such a difference. Our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provide the medical support and therapeutic environment needed to get through this difficult phase safely.

Treatment Approaches for Kratom Addiction

Because kratom acts on opioid receptors, treatment approaches are similar to those used for opioid use disorder. At Nova Transformations, our evidence-based treatment for kratom addiction includes:

  • Medical Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation to understand your kratom use patterns, co-occurring conditions, and overall health status
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): When appropriate, FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings
  • Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions with licensed clinicians using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other proven approaches
  • Group Therapy: Peer support and shared learning with others in recovery
  • Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Integrated care for co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma—which often underlie kratom use
  • Relapse Prevention: Building skills and strategies for long-term recovery

Kratom Legal Status in North Carolina

As of 2025, kratom remains legal in North Carolina for adults 18 and older. However, House Bill 468, currently under consideration, proposes raising the minimum age to 21 and implementing product safety regulations including mandatory testing and labeling requirements.

The unregulated nature of kratom products is a significant concern. Without standardized testing, consumers have no way of knowing the actual potency or purity of what they’re taking. Products may contain varying levels of active compounds or be contaminated with harmful substances—making it easy to unintentionally develop dependence or experience adverse effects.

Regardless of legal status, if kratom is negatively impacting your life, relationships, finances, or health, it may be time to consider treatment. Our team at Nova Transformations is here to help you take that step.