Does Kratom Show Up on a Drug Test? Detection, Windows, and Risks

If you’re wondering, “does kratom show up on a drug test?” you’re not alone. Kratom typically does not show up on standard drug tests. Most standard drug tests, such as the 5-panel and 10-panel tests, do not screen for kratom. This is because kratom’s active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are not included in standard drug testing panels. However, specialized or extended drug tests can be designed to detect mitragynine or 7-hydroxymitragynine, the main alkaloids in kratom. If you are concerned about kratom use and drug testing, it’s important to understand which type of test is being administered and whether it specifically includes kratom.

Employers Test: Will Kratom Appear On Workplace Drug Tests

When it comes to workplace drug testing, it’s important to know that common drug tests and most drug tests do not screen for kratom. Most standard drug tests, including the commonly used 5-panel and 10-panel tests, do not screen for kratom. However, some employers may order expanded or specialized panels that can detect a wider range of substances, including kratom, especially in safety-sensitive industries or when there is a specific reason to test for it. Probation tests may also sometimes include expanded panels that could detect kratom, depending on the requirements of the probation program.

Before undergoing any drug test, it’s a good idea to check your employer’s drug testing policies or ask what substances will be screened. If you are using kratom legally, consider disclosing this information to your employer or probation officer when appropriate, especially if you are subject to expanded or specialized testing.

What Is Kratom and How People Use It

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, and its leaves contain active compounds called alkaloids, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing both stimulant and opioid-like effects, such as pain relief and euphoria. Kratom is commonly consumed in various forms, including capsules, powders, teas, and extracts.

Historically, kratom has been used in traditional medicine practices in Southeast Asia for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. Today, it is often used for managing chronic pain, as a natural alternative to traditional medications, and for its opioid-like effects. Many individuals also use kratom to self-treat opioid withdrawal symptoms, but this can lead to a cycle of dependence.

Which Drug Tests Can Detect Kratom

Kratom is a herbal supplement that has gained popularity for its stimulant and opioid-like effects, but many people wonder: does kratom show up on a drug test? Kratom testing is not typically included in standard drug testing panels, such as the common 5-panel or 10-panel tests, which are designed to detect substances like opioids, THC, amphetamines, cocaine, and benzodiazepines. However, extended panel tests and specialized kratom tests may be used to detect kratom, especially in legal, workplace, or treatment settings where a more comprehensive screening is required.

Standard drug testing panels do not usually detect kratom because they do not screen for its primary alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors but require specific testing to detect. Specialized drug tests, which are often more costly and must be specifically requested, can detect kratom’s specific alkaloids, such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, using advanced laboratory techniques like mass spectrometry. These tests are used when there is a need to thoroughly investigate substance use or ensure legal compliance.

Urine Tests

Most standard 5-panel urine drug tests do not screen for kratom, which is why kratom use often goes undetected in routine employment or legal screenings. However, specialized urine assays can detect mitragynine, the primary active compound in kratom. If you are concerned about kratom detection, it is important to ask the testing laboratory whether a specific kratom screening was ordered.

When considering how long does kratom stay in your system, the detection window for kratom in urine is typically up to seven days after last use. The kratom stay in urine can vary based on factors such as dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Kratom can be detected in urine tests, particularly in 10-panel tests, for up to seven days after last use. In most cases, kratom is detectable for up to a week, but this timeframe may be shorter or longer depending on usage patterns.

Blood Tests

Blood tests have a short detection window for kratom, typically identifying its presence for only 24 to 48 hours after consumption. Blood tests can detect kratom for 24 to 48 hours after use, but they are not commonly used for routine drug screenings and are mainly reserved for situations where recent intoxication needs to be confirmed. Detection of kratom in blood tests typically lasts for 24 to 48 hours after consumption. In specialized cases, advanced analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry (including LC-MS/MS) are used in blood assays to detect kratom’s specific alkaloids.

Saliva Tests

• Saliva tests rarely include kratom screening because kratom alkaloids are not commonly targeted in standard saliva drug panels.
• The detection window for kratom in saliva is typically very short, often only up to 24 to 48 hours after use.
• Due to the brief detection period and the uncommon inclusion of kratom in saliva tests, this method is generally not reliable for identifying kratom use.
• Specialized saliva tests for kratom exist but are rarely utilized outside of specific clinical or forensic settings.
• Saliva testing offers a non-invasive and convenient option for drug screening, but its limited detection window makes it less effective for substances like kratom that metabolize quickly in the body.

Hair Tests

Hair tests can detect long-term drug use patterns because they analyze a small sample of hair for traces of substances. Hair follicle testing is a highly reliable method that can potentially detect substances like kratom for up to 90 days after use. This extended detection window makes hair follicle testing useful for identifying long-term drug use patterns. However, it’s important to note that hair tests rarely screen specifically for kratom alkaloids, so a standard hair test is unlikely to detect kratom unless a specialized test is ordered.

Detection Windows for Kratom

Test Type	Typical Detection Window for Kratom	Notes
Urine	1-7 days	Detection window may be longer for extended periods of heavy or repeated use.
Blood	Up to 24 hours	Kratom has a half-life of approximately 24 hours.
Saliva	Up to 24 hours	Less commonly used for kratom detection.
Hair	Up to 90 days	Can show use over extended periods, especially with frequent or long-term consumption.

How long does kratom stay detectable in your system depends on the type of test, frequency of use, and individual factors. Kratom can remain in the body for several days, but the exact duration depends on the person and how much was used. Individual metabolic factors, such as age and body composition, play a substantial role in how quickly kratom is processed and eliminated. Hydration and diet can also affect how long kratom remains in your system.

Understanding Detection and Testing

Understanding how kratom is detected in drug tests is essential for anyone who uses kratom or is subject to drug screening. Kratom, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, contains unique active compounds known as alkaloids—primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These kratom alkaloids interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects that range from increased energy and alertness at lower doses to pain relief and sedation at higher doses.

When it comes to drug testing, most standard drug tests—including the common 5-panel and 10-panel screens—do not detect kratom or its alkaloids. These standard drug tests are designed to identify controlled substances such as opioids, amphetamines, cocaine, THC, and benzodiazepines, but not kratom. However, specialized tests and extended panel drug screenings can detect kratom, especially if there is a specific reason to screen for it, such as in clinical pathology settings, legal cases, or addiction treatment programs.

The ability to detect kratom depends on the type of test used. Urine tests are the most frequently used method for kratom detection, with kratom metabolites potentially detectable for up to 7 days after use. Blood tests can also detect kratom, but their detection window is much shorter and they are typically reserved for identifying recent drug use. Saliva tests are rarely used to screen for kratom, as their detection window is very brief. Hair tests, while capable of detecting substances for up to 90 days, are not commonly used to screen specifically for kratom alkaloids.

Several factors influence whether kratom will show up on a drug test. These include how much and how often kratom is used, the user’s metabolic rate, age, liver and kidney function, and the specific testing method employed. Additionally, the purity of kratom products can play a significant role. Some kratom products may be contaminated with other substances, including illicit drugs, which can trigger false positives on drug tests and pose additional health risks.

It’s also important to consider the legal landscape. While kratom is not classified as a controlled substance at the federal level in the United States, some states and municipalities have chosen to ban or restrict its use. This legal variability means that kratom users should be aware of local regulations and the potential employment or legal consequences of a positive drug test for kratom or other substances.

For individuals who use kratom for pain management, anxiety, or as a natural remedy, understanding the risks of kratom abuse, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms is crucial. If you or someone you know is struggling with kratom addiction or experiencing withdrawal, seeking professional treatment is highly recommended. Outpatient programs, medically supervised detox, and evidence-based therapies can provide the support needed for lasting recovery.

In summary, while most standard drug tests do not screen for kratom, specialized tests can detect its presence. Being informed about kratom detection, the risks of contaminated products, and the importance of professional treatment can help individuals make safer, more informed decisions about their health and substance use.

Factors That Affect Whether Tests Detect Kratom

The amount and frequency of kratom use can extend how long its alkaloids remain detectable in the body. Higher doses and more frequent use may result in longer detection windows. Additionally, individual metabolic rate and age play a role—people with faster metabolisms or younger age may eliminate kratom more quickly, while those with slower metabolisms or older age may retain it longer. Liver and kidney function are also important, as impaired function can slow the clearance of kratom from the system.

Product purity is a significant factor. Contaminated kratom products pose safety concerns, as they may be adulterated with illicit substances like opioids, which can affect drug testing results and consumer safety. Low-quality kratom products may contain actual opioids or other substances that could cause a failed drug test. How kratom interacts with drug testing processes depends on the specific alkaloids present, which may influence detection windows and the likelihood of a positive result. Kratom typically does not show up on standard drug tests and is only detected if specialized or extended testing is used.

False Positives: Can Kratom Cause A False Positive?

Kratom use has been reported in some cases to cause false positives on drug tests, particularly for methadone, an opioid medication. This occurs because certain immunoassay drug screens may cross-react with kratom’s alkaloids, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, due to structural similarities with opioids. Such cross-reactivity can lead to a positive result for methadone or other opioids even though the individual has not used these substances.

Because false positives can have serious consequences, it is important to request confirmatory testing using more specific and reliable methods such as Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). These advanced laboratory techniques can differentiate kratom alkaloids from opioids and other drugs, reducing the risk of misinterpretation and ensuring accurate results.

If you use kratom legally or for medical reasons, it is advisable to keep documentation such as product labels, receipts, or medical recommendations. Providing this information to the testing facility, employer, or probation officer can help clarify your situation and prevent misunderstandings related to drug test results. Being transparent about kratom use and having proper documentation can be crucial in avoiding unwarranted penalties or employment issues related to false-positive drug tests.

Health Risks, Kratom Abuse, And Related Harms

Kratom can cause a range of acute side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and increased urination. More serious health risks include the potential for liver toxicity, seizures, and overdose, especially when kratom is combined with alcohol or prescription drugs. The FDA warns against kratom use due to these risks, highlighting concerns about liver toxicity and seizures. There is growing concern among health professionals about kratom’s potential for substance abuse and drug abuse, as it has been linked to dependence and is under increasing regulatory scrutiny.

Dependence And Kratom Addiction

Kratom is considered potentially kratom addictive, especially with regular and chronic use. Individuals who use kratom frequently may develop kratom dependence, which can lead to physical drug dependence and addiction. This risk is heightened by kratom’s opioid-like effects, which may result in both physical dependence and psychological cravings if someone suddenly stops using it. Regular kratom use can also result in tolerance, meaning larger doses are needed to achieve the same effects, which increases the risk of addiction.

Withdrawal symptoms from kratom can include irritability, insomnia, muscle aches, and cravings. While kratom withdrawal symptoms are typically less severe than those associated with traditional opioid withdrawal, they can still be uncomfortable and challenging to manage. The development of kratom dependence and addiction can have significant clinical implications and may be classified as a substance use disorder, requiring comprehensive treatment and support.

Professional treatment for kratom dependence often includes evidence-based approaches that are effective for opioid use disorders. It is important to screen for co-occurring substance use disorders and address any underlying mental health issues as part of a comprehensive recovery plan.

Addiction Treatment And Getting Help

Inpatient detox programs are often the first step for individuals experiencing kratom withdrawal. These medically supervised detox facilities provide a safe and controlled environment where withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, muscle aches, and cravings can be managed effectively. Inpatient detox typically includes 24-hour medical monitoring, medication-assisted treatment to ease withdrawal discomfort, and supportive care to ensure physical stability during the initial phase of recovery.

For those who do not require inpatient care or after completing detox, outpatient treatment options are available, including Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP). IOP offers structured treatment sessions multiple times per week, allowing patients to maintain daily responsibilities such as work or school while receiving therapy, counseling, and group support. PHP provides a higher level of care with more frequent and longer treatment sessions, often resembling a full-day schedule, but patients return home at night. Both IOP and PHP focus on addressing the psychological aspects of kratom dependence and developing coping strategies to prevent relapse.

Evidence-based therapies play a critical role in kratom addiction treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely used to help individuals identify and change patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to substance use. Motivational Interviewing (MI) supports patients in resolving ambivalence about quitting kratom and strengthens their commitment to recovery. These therapeutic approaches, combined with individual counseling, group therapy, and family support, create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each person’s needs.

Long-term recovery from kratom dependence requires ongoing relapse prevention and aftercare planning. This may include continued therapy, participation in support groups, and developing healthy lifestyle habits to maintain sobriety. Aftercare programs provide accountability and support as individuals transition back to everyday life, helping to reduce the risk of relapse and promote lasting recovery.

Legal And Employment Implications Of Detecting Kratom

The legal status of kratom in the United States is complex and varies significantly by location. While kratom is legal at the federal level, its status is determined by individual states and municipalities, leading to a patchwork of regulations. The question “is kratom legal” depends on where you live: some states, such as Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Vermont, and Wisconsin, have chosen to ban kratom entirely, making possession or sale illegal. Efforts to ban kratom continue in various states, with ongoing legislative and regulatory debates about its safety and use. In other states, regulations may restrict sales to minors or require specific labeling and quality controls. Kratom is not regulated by the FDA and is classified as a dietary supplement, but it is considered a ‘drug of concern’ by the DEA and is under increasing scrutiny. The legal status of kratom is subject to ongoing public health debate and potential legislative changes, so it is important to stay updated on local laws. In Texas, kratom is legal for adults 18 and older under the Texas Kratom Consumer Health and Safety Protection Act.

If you test positive for kratom on a drug test, the consequences can vary depending on your employer’s policies and the specific laws in your state. Some employers may have zero-tolerance policies for any non-prescribed substances, while others may not specifically test for or prohibit kratom. Because of the legal variability and potential employment risks, it is advisable to consult your HR department or seek legal counsel if you have concerns about kratom use and workplace drug testing.

How To Prepare For A Drug Test If You Use Kratom

If you are preparing for a drug test, it’s important to verify which panel and compounds the lab will test for, as standard screenings typically do not include kratom. However, kratom testing is possible through specialized kratom tests, which are designed to detect kratom alkaloids and may be used in certain legal, workplace, or treatment settings. Always check if such specialized tests will be part of your screening.

Avoid relying on unproven detox methods the night before your test, as these are unlikely to be effective and may be unsafe.

If you use kratom lawfully, keep proof of purchase or any relevant prescriptions to provide documentation if needed.

FAQ

Why is professional support important for kratom-related issues?
For those concerned about dependence, withdrawal, or drug testing impacts, professional support is valuable. Addiction treatment centers offer medically supervised detox, therapy, and counseling addressing physical and psychological aspects of kratom dependence. Evidence-based treatments like CBT, motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention help develop coping skills and maintain recovery. Support groups and aftercare provide ongoing encouragement and accountability, increasing chances of lasting success.

Do standard 5-panel drug tests detect kratom?
No, standard 5-panel drug tests do not detect kratom because they focus on substances like marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP. Kratom’s unique alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are not included in these routine screenings. However, some employers or testing programs may request expanded or specialized panels that do screen for kratom alkaloids, especially in safety-sensitive industries or legal situations.

How long does kratom stay detectable by each test?

Detection windows vary by test type:
• Urine tests can detect kratom metabolites for up to 7 days after use, especially in specialized 10-panel tests.
• Blood tests detect kratom for 24 to 48 hours, primarily used to confirm recent use or intoxication.
• Saliva tests detect kratom for about 24 to 48 hours but are rarely used for kratom screening.
• Hair follicle tests can detect kratom use for up to 90 days, though specific testing for kratom in hair is uncommon and typically used in forensic or clinical pathology settings.

Can kratom cause a false positive for opioids?
Yes, although kratom alkaloids are chemically distinct from traditional opioids, high doses of kratom have been reported to cause false positives for methadone or other opioids on some immunoassay drug tests due to cross-reactivity. Confirmatory testing using more specific methods like GC-MS or LC-MS/MS can differentiate kratom from opioids and avoid misinterpretation.

What should you do if you test positive for kratom?
Disclose any legal kratom use to the testing authority, employer, or probation officer. Providing documentation such as purchase receipts, product labels, or medical recommendations can help clarify your situation. If use has become problematic or withdrawal symptoms occur, seek professional treatment at a reputable addiction treatment center for medically supervised detox, outpatient therapy, and evidence-based approaches tailored to kratom dependence.

Additional considerations regarding kratom testing and use?
Not all kratom products are equal; low-quality or contaminated products may contain opioids or other substances that could cause a positive result on standard drug tests. Sourcing kratom from reputable suppliers with third-party testing reduces this risk. Individual factors like age, body weight, liver and kidney function, hydration, and frequency of use influence how long kratom remains detectable and its effects.

What are the implications of a positive kratom test?
Consequences vary by context. In employment, a positive test could lead to disciplinary action or affect job eligibility, especially in safety-sensitive roles. In legal or probation settings, positive tests might result in court-ordered treatment or sanctions, particularly where kratom is banned. Knowing local laws and consulting legal or HR professionals is important.