Nova Transformations drug and alcohol rehab for Raleigh NC

Kratom in Charlotte, NC: Rising Use, Addiction & Withdrawal — How Nova Transformations Can Help

A comprehensive guide for Charlotte families on the growing use of kratom, its risks, withdrawal symptoms, and local recovery options through Nova Transformations.

Call (704) 997-3500
Verify Insurance
Book an Assessment

Kratom Use Is Surging — Here’s What Charlotte Needs to Know

Kratom, derived from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, has gained popularity across the United States as a so-called “natural” alternative to opioids or stimulants. In Charlotte, NC, kratom is sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and online under names like “K Shot,” “OPMS,” or “Maeng Da.”
While some claim it helps with pain or opioid withdrawal, health experts warn of rising dependence and significant withdrawal risks.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
report that kratom’s active compounds—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—bind to the same receptors as opioids, creating similar addiction and withdrawal risks.
At Nova Transformations, we’ve seen a steady increase in individuals seeking help for kratom dependency in the Charlotte area.

What Kratom Does — and Why It’s Addictive

Stimulant at low doses: Users may feel energized, social, or alert for a few hours.
Opioid-like at high doses: It produces relaxation and pain relief but also sedation and euphoria—similar to prescription opioids.
Highly habit-forming: Regular use alters brain chemistry, leading to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.
Unregulated market: Many kratom products contain contaminants or are fortified with synthetic opioids, increasing overdose risk.

Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping kratom suddenly can cause intense physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms similar to opioid withdrawal:

Muscle aches and joint pain
Insomnia, anxiety, or irritability
Runny nose, sweating, chills
Loss of appetite and nausea
Cravings and mood swings

Withdrawal can begin within 12 to 24 hours of the last dose and last up to 7–10 days.
Nova Transformations offers structured outpatient treatment
and therapy-based care to help clients safely detox and maintain sobriety.

Kratom Use in Charlotte, NC

In Mecklenburg County, kratom remains legal, though unregulated. Local pharmacies and health departments have reported increasing kratom-related inquiries.
Poison control calls in North Carolina related to kratom exposure have doubled in recent years.
As reported by North Carolina Health News,
state lawmakers have introduced bills to restrict kratom sales to minors and require clearer labeling for safety.

Families in Charlotte’s neighborhoods—from Uptown and South End to Ballantyne, Matthews, and Pineville—should be aware that many stores advertise kratom as “herbal wellness.”
But there is no FDA approval, no dosage regulation, and no guarantee of purity.

How Nova Transformations Helps with Kratom Addiction

At Nova Transformations, we understand that recovery from kratom dependency requires more than willpower.
Our substance misuse programs
are designed around evidence-based practices and compassionate, individualized care.

Comprehensive assessments: Each client receives a medical and psychological evaluation to determine the right level of care.
Outpatient and IOP care: Flexible scheduling for professionals, students, and families.
Therapeutic interventions: Individual therapy, family therapy, and breathwork therapy.
Holistic healing: Mindfulness, nutrition guidance, and relapse-prevention training.
Long-term recovery planning: Alumni support, aftercare coordination, and relapse-prevention education.

Verify Insurance
Book an Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom

Is kratom legal in North Carolina?

Yes. As of 2025, kratom is legal statewide but unregulated. Lawmakers have proposed bills to restrict underage sales and add safety labeling requirements.

Can kratom cause addiction and withdrawal?

Yes. Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) confirms kratom can cause physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms similar to opioids.

Is kratom safe for pain or anxiety?

No. The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use, and safety concerns—including liver toxicity and contamination—have been documented.

How does Nova Transformations treat kratom addiction?

Nova provides outpatient and intensive outpatient care with individualized therapy, medical oversight, and relapse-prevention planning—all in a supportive, judgment-free environment.