Kratom, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, has gained increasing popularity in the United States thanks to its medicinal and recreational uses. Known for its opioid-like effects, it’s often used to manage pain, relieve opioid withdrawal symptoms, or provide mild stimulation. Despite its growing fanbase, the substance occupies a legal gray area in the U.S., making it the subject of curiosity and concern when it comes to drug testing.
If you’re wondering whether kratom could show up on a drug test, this article provides a deep-dive into exactly that. We’ll explore what kratom is, whether it can be detected in standard drug tests, the types of tests used, detection timeframes, and factors influencing its detection. We’ll also address frequently asked questions and the risks tied to kratom consumption.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped with accurate information to help you make informed decisions about using kratom and drug testing scenarios.
What is Kratom and Why Do People Use It?
Kratom, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, has a long history of use in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia. Its active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, interact with your body’s opioid receptors, making kratom popular for both medicinal and recreational purposes.
Common Uses of Kratom
- Pain Relief: Many users turn to kratom for its ability to alleviate pain without prescription opioids.
- Opioid Withdrawal: Some use kratom as a natural alternative to ease withdrawal symptoms from opioids.
- Energy and Focus: At lower doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, enhancing energy and productivity.
- Recreational Use: Kratom is valued for its euphoric and calming effects.
The effects vary based on the dosage—smaller amounts are stimulating, while larger quantities produce sedation or feelings similar to opioids.
Does Kratom Show Up on a Drug Test?
Here’s the short answer: Kratom will not show up on a standard 5-panel drug test, commonly used by employers.
Why?
The standard 5-panel test is designed to detect substances like THC (cannabis), cocaine, amphetamines, PCP, and opioids like morphine or heroin. Since kratom alkaloids—mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine—have a unique chemical structure, they aren’t detected in these routine tests.
However, specialized tests, such as 10-panel tests or tests specifically designed for kratom, can identify its presence if the tester chooses to include it.
When is Kratom Likely to Be Tested?
- Medical Contexts: Specific medical facilities may test for kratom if it’s suspected to impact a patient’s treatment.
- Legal Cases: Law enforcement or legal disputes may involve more comprehensive substance testing.
- Workplaces in Regulatively Strict Jurisdictions: Employers in states where kratom is banned may screen for it.
Types of Drug Tests and Kratom Detection
Different tests come with varying detection windows and sensitivities for kratom.
1. Urine Tests
- Detection Window: 6 hours to 1 week after use.
- Usage: Includes both standard and specialized tests. The 10-panel urine test can detect kratom.
Urine tests are the most commonly used type of drug test, favored for their cost-effectiveness and reliability.
2. Blood Tests
- Detection Window: 1-3 days after ingestion.
- Usage: Rarely used unless in medical or legal cases.
Blood testing offers a shorter detection timeframe but is more precise for recent usage.
3. Saliva Tests
- Detection Window: Potentially up to 2 days, but not commonly utilized for kratom detection unless specifically tailored.
- Usage: Saliva tests are becoming popular in workplaces but rarely include kratom.
4. Hair Tests
- Detection Window: Up to 90 days after use.
- Usage: Hair follicle tests are uncommon for kratom but hypothetically could detect it.
While hair tests offer the longest detection timeline, they are rarely utilized due to their complexity and cost.
What Affects Kratom Detection on a Drug Test?
The length of time kratom remains detectable depends on several factors, including dosage, metabolism, and lifestyle habits.
Key Factors
- Dosage
- Higher doses take longer for your body to eliminate, increasing the detection window.
- Frequency of Use
- Chronic users may retain traces longer due to accumulation in their system.
- Metabolism
- Faster metabolisms clear kratom more quickly, while slower ones can extend its presence.
- Body Fat Levels
- Kratom is fat-soluble, meaning it lingers longer in individuals with higher fat percentages.
- Age
- Older adults tend to metabolize substances slower, prolonging kratom detection.
- Diet and Hydration
- Taking kratom with a fatty meal could lengthen its detection period, whereas drinking plenty of water can help flush it out faster.
- Quality of Kratom
- Adulterated or low-quality kratom products may behave differently during testing.
Does Kratom Show as an Opioid on Drug Tests?
Although kratom interacts with opioid receptors, its alkaloids are chemically distinct from opioids like heroin or oxycodone.
This distinction means that kratom will not trigger a positive result in standard opioid screenings.
However, in specialized tests, kratom alkaloids (mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine) can be detected independently.
How to Handle Drug Tests While Using Kratom
Here are some strategies to consider if you’re using kratom and facing a drug test situation:
- Disclose Supplement Use
- If you’ve consumed kratom, inform your employer, probation officer, or medical provider in advance.
- Know Your Local Laws
- Kratom’s legality varies by state. If detected where it’s banned, legal consequences may follow.
- Time It Right
- If possible, allow at least 1-2 weeks after your last use for the substance to leave your system entirely.
Potential Risks of Kratom Use
While kratom offers benefits, it’s not without risks, particularly when consumed irresponsibly or in high doses.
Risks and Side Effects
- Physical Dependence: Prolonged use can lead to tolerance and withdrawal.
- Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, rapid heart rate, and dizziness.
- Overdose Risk: Particularly dangerous when combined with alcohol or other substances.
Always prioritize responsible use and monitor any side effects.
Legality of Kratom and Its Impact on Drug Testing
Federally, kratom remains legal in the U.S., but local regulations vary widely. Six states, including Alabama, Arkansas, and Indiana, have banned kratom entirely, while others impose specific restrictions.
Employers and law enforcement in restrictive regions may utilize specialized tests to check for its presence.
Final Thoughts
For most people, kratom is unlikely to show up on routine drug tests unless specialized testing is employed. However, factors such as dosage, frequency of use, and the type of test influence detection.
If you use kratom, be aware of local regulations, openly communicate during drug testing, and consume responsibly to avoid potential legal and health issues.
For more insights into kratom or related topics, consult experts or explore local resources for further guidance.
FAQs
What does a 12-panel drug test test for?
A 12-panel test typically screens for substances like opiates, amphetamines, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, cocaine, THC, and synthetic opioids.
What drug cannot be detected in a urine test?
Many newer or less common substances, including kratom, are not detected unless specifically requested.
What type of drug is kratom?
Kratom is a psychoactive substance with alkaloids that produce both stimulant and opioid-like effects.
What drugs show up on a routine drug test?
Standard panels detect substances like marijuana, opioids, amphetamines, cocaine, and PCP.
