Kratom Addiction Treatment with Suboxone at CleanSlate Centers
Emergency: If someone is unresponsive or not breathing, call 911.
Reviewed by: Dr. Adeyemi Fatoki, CleanSlate Regional Medical Director • Last reviewed: September 23, 2025
Find a Kratom Detox Center Near You
Use our location finder to connect with a nearby CleanSlate center and start treatment quickly.
Not sure where to begin? Call 833-505-4673 and we’ll guide you
Quick Self-Assessment
Answering 'Yes' to two or more questions suggests a possible kratom addiction.
| Daily or near-daily kratom use? |
| Unsuccessful quit attempts or withdrawal when cutting back? |
| Cravings or use disrupting life? |
| Need more to feel the same effects? |
| Spending more time or money than planned? |
| Feeling anxious or “off” if you don’t use? |
If you answered Yes to 2 or more, you may have kratom addiction. We can help. Call 833-505-4673 or Schedule Online (fast, confidential). If this is a medical emergency or overdose, call 911.
I fell victim to kratom 8 years ago. It was described to me as a ‘safe and healthy’ alternative to alcohol. It was marketed as a ‘supplement’, similar to a vitamin that would give you energy and focus. I was not told I would become dependent. I was not told it was a legal opioid…It destroyed my life, my skin, my drive, my desire to do my favorite hobbies, and almost destroyed my marriage.
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Kratom Addiction Treatment at CleanSlate (Suboxone + Outpatient Care)
At CleanSlate, we treat kratom addiction in an outpatient setting using Suboxone® (buprenorphine/naloxone) alongside behavioral health and care coordination. Our goal is simple: reduce withdrawal and cravings, stabilize your day-to-day, and build the skills for long-term recovery without pausing your life.
Safety first: Don’t mix Suboxone or kratom with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or sedating drugs unless directed by your prescriber. If severe drowsiness or slowed breathing occurs, call 911.
How We Support Your Whole Recovery
Medication (MAT)
Suboxone to reduce withdrawal and cravings.
Behavioral Health
CBT/Motivational Interviewing, trauma-informed care, relapse-prevention planning.
Care Coordination
Primary care linkage, social services, and referrals as needed.
Flexible Outpatient Visits
Care that fits work, school, and family life.
Ready to Start?
Why CleanSlate Uses Suboxone® (Not Methadone) for Kratom Addiction
CleanSlate does not provide methadone. We treat kratom addiction in an outpatient setting using Suboxone® (buprenorphine/naloxone), integrated behavioral health, and care coordination. Here’s why Suboxone is typically preferable for kratom dependence in our model of care.
Clinical Rationale
Mechanism & ceiling effect
Buprenorphine is a partial mu-opioid agonist with a ceiling effect on respiratory depression, which lowers overdose risk compared with full agonists like methadone.
Office-based care
Suboxone can be prescribed and managed in routine outpatient visits, matching CleanSlate’s access-first model.
Effective for withdrawal/cravings
In practice (and in emerging reports), buprenorphine/naloxone can reduce kratom withdrawal and cravings and help stabilize day-to-day functioning (your clinician times induction to avoid precipitated withdrawal).
Drug–drug interactions/QTc
Methadone (a full agonist) carries dose-dependent QTc prolongation and more CNS-depressant interaction concerns; careful ECG/interaction monitoring is standard in OTPs.
Patient Experience & Access
Fewer visit burdens
Suboxone is managed in the clinic without the daily observed dosing typically required at methadone opioid treatment programs (OTPs)—important for work, family, and travel.
Stability & flexibility
Most patients prefer the flexibility of scheduled outpatient visits and the ability to maintain normal routines.
When Might Methadone Be Considered?
Methadone is an effective, evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder and may be considered when:
- There is very high physiologic tolerance or repeated non-response to buprenorphine, or
- A patient is already stabilized at an OTP and doing well on methadone.
CleanSlate can coordinate referrals to community OTPs when a methadone pathway is clinically appropriate.
Next step: Learn more in Methadone vs. Suboxone: What’s the Difference?
Have questions?
Call 833-505-4673 or Schedule Online for a same-week appointment and benefits verification.
Find a Kratom Detox Center Near You
Use our location finder to connect with a nearby CleanSlate center and start treatment quickly.
Not sure where to begin? Call 833-505-4673 and we’ll guide you
What is Kratom?
What Is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a Southeast Asian tree. Its alkaloids—especially mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—bind to mu-opioid receptors in the brain. At lower doses, kratom may feel stimulating; at higher doses, it can feel opioid-like (sedation, pain relief, euphoria). Because kratom products are unregulated in the U.S., potency, purity, and contamination risk are unpredictable.
Synthetic and Concentrated Forms of Kratom
In recent years, laboratory-altered or concentrated forms of kratom have appeared on the market—most notably synthetic derivatives of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH Mitragynine). These products are often far more potent than natural kratom leaf and carry greater risks of overdose, dependence, and toxicity. Because they are unregulated, users may not realize how strong these formulations are until severe side effects occur. CleanSlate strongly cautions against synthetic kratom products and provides treatment for people struggling with their use.
How Is Kratom Used?
- Capsules/tablets (perceived “measured” doses can still vary)
- Powder (mixed into drinks)
- Tea (brewed from leaf)
- Extracts/concentrates (higher overdose risk)
- Raw leaves (traditional in some regions)
Because quality control is inconsistent, users rarely know the true dose.
Effects of Kratom
Short-term (dose-dependent):
- Energy/alertness (lower doses)
- Pain relief, relaxation, euphoria (higher doses)
Adverse effects (any dose):
- Nausea, vomiting, constipation, sweating
- Dizziness, tremor, anxiety, irritability
- Insomnia, vivid dreams
- Heart palpitations, elevated blood pressure
Long-term risks:
- Dependence and withdrawal
- Mood changes, cognitive impacts
- Possible liver injury
- Dangerous interactions with alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines
Why Is Kratom Used?
- Pain self-management: chronic pain, musculoskeletal issues
- Energy/focus: stimulant-like effects at low doses
- Mood relief: anxiety, stress, or low mood self-medication
- Self-treating opioid withdrawal: substituting one dependency for another
- Recreational effects: euphoria/relaxation at higher doses
Key risks: unregulated dosing, variable potency, contamination (e.g., heavy metals, pathogens),dependence, withdrawal, and drug interactions.
Kratom Use in the United States
- Over a million people in the U.S. report past-year use.
- Use often clusters around self-medication for pain, mood, and opioid withdrawal.
- Regulations vary by state and locality and can change over time.
Dangers of Kratom Addiction and Signs of Overdose
Immediate risks:
- Overdose (especially with alcohol/opioids/benzodiazepines)
- Cardiovascular complications (palpitations, high blood pressure)
- Seizures
- Accidents due to impaired coordination
Long-term risks:
- Liver injury, potential kidney issues
- Mood and cognitive changes
- Social, legal, and financial consequences
Lack of Regulation for Kratom
- Contamination: heavy metals, pathogens, adulterants
- Variable potency and inaccurate labels
- Unpredictable effects and drug interactions
Safety/Overdose
Symptoms of Possible Kratom Overdose
- Extreme sleepiness or unresponsiveness
- Slow, irregular, or stopped breathing
- Seizures
- Blue/gray lips or fingertips
- Severe confusion; very fast or irregular heartbeat
Can You Overdose on Kratom?
Yes—particularly with concentrated extracts or when combined with alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines.
Is Kratom Safe?
“Natural” doesn’t mean safe. Kratom’s opioid-receptor activity, lack of FDA approval, and variable potency raise clear risks: addiction, withdrawal, toxicity, and interactions with other medicines or substances.
Mixing Kratom and Other Substances
Do not mix kratom with:
- Alcohol: additive CNS depression; overdose risk
- Opioids: dangerous respiratory depression
- Benzodiazepines: sedation and breathing suppression
- Certain antidepressants or other medications: potential interactions
Call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose. There is no specific antidote for kratom; emergency care is critical.
Withdrawal & Detox
Is Kratom Addictive?
Yes. Kratom’s alkaloids act at opioid receptors, and repeated use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
Common signs: needing more for the same effect, withdrawal when cutting back, cravings, using despite consequences, increasing time/money spent, and interference with work/school/relationships.
Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
- Physical: muscle/joint aches, nausea/diarrhea, sweating, chills, restlessness, tremor, headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbance
- Psychological: anxiety, irritability, low mood, poor concentration, cravings
Kratom Detox and Tapering
Detox is safest with medical support. Some patients benefit from gradual tapering and medication to reduce withdrawal and cravings.
Medical Detox for Kratom
- Assessment and individualized plan
- Symptom monitoring and supportive medications
- Transition to outpatient treatment and relapse-prevention
What Is Kratom Withdrawal?
A cluster of physical and psychological symptoms that can occur when a dependent user reduces or stops use.
Kratom Withdrawal Timeline
* varies by person
- 6–12 hours: early symptoms may begin
- Days 1–3: peak intensity
- Days 4–7: gradual improvement
- After 1–2 weeks: most physical symptoms resolve; mood/sleep may take longer
Should I Detox from Kratom at Home?
Not recommended. Home detox increases the risks of complications and relapse.
Is Kratom Treatment Covered by Insurance?
We accept most major insurance plans and verify your benefits before your first appointment. No referral required.
Frequently Asked Questions: Kratom, Withdrawal, and Treatment
What is kratom?
A Southeast Asian plant whose alkaloids act at opioid receptors; at low doses it can stimulate, at higher doses it can feel opioid-like.
Does kratom act like an opioid?
Yes—its primary alkaloids bind mu-opioid receptors and can produce opioid-like effects.
How habit-forming is kratom?
Regular use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
What does kratom do to the brain long term?
Chronic use can alter reward/mood pathways, contributing to dependence and mood changes; recovery improves with abstinence and care.
Does kratom impact sleep?
Yes—insomnia or disrupted sleep are common; vivid dreams may occur.
Can you overdose on kratom?
Yes—especially with extracts or polydrug use (alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines). Call 911 for overdose symptoms.
Is there a reversal agent for kratom overdose?
No specific antidote. Emergency care is essential. (Naloxone reverses opioids but is not a kratom antidote.)
How many people use kratom in the U.S.?
Over a million report past-year use; prevalence varies by source and year.
What is kava vs kratom?
Kava affects GABA pathways (sedative/anxiolytic). Kratom acts at opioid receptors (stimulant-like at low doses; opioid-like at higher doses).
Is kratom a stimulant or an opioid-like drug?
It can feel stimulating at low doses and opioid-like at higher doses.
How strong is kratom compared to morphine?
Potency claims vary and depend on compound and preparation; concentrate products raise overdose risk.
Does kratom show up on a drug test?
Not on most standard panels; specialized tests can detect it.
Kratom and benzodiazepines—safe?
No. Increases sedation and respiratory depression risk.
What is kratom withdrawal like?
Similar to opioid withdrawal for many: aches, nausea/diarrhea, sweating, anxiety/irritability, insomnia, cravings.
How long does kratom withdrawal last?
Many physical symptoms resolve within 1–2 weeks; mood/sleep can take longer.
Can the effects of kratom withdrawal be reversed?
Withdrawal is temporary and treatable; recovery improves with medication, counseling, and support.
What is medical detox for kratom?
Clinician-guided stabilization with monitoring, supportive meds, and transition to outpatient treatment.
Is Suboxone safe?
When prescribed and monitored, Suboxone is an FDA-approved treatment for opioid use disorder and can support recovery from kratom dependence.
Can I recover from kratom addiction?
Yes—with medication, counseling, skills, and support, many people achieve long-term recovery.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can contact CleanSlate directly.
What if I relapse?
We adjust care plans, strengthen supports, and continue working with you—relapse can be part of the recovery journey.
Does kratom affect mental health?
It can worsen anxiety, mood instability, and sleep; treatment improves these over time.
What is the strongest kratom?
Concentrates/extracts are often much stronger and raise overdose risk; avoid.
Can kratom affect sexual function?
Reports vary; any changes should be discussed with a clinician.
How do I start treatment?
Call 833-505-4673 or Schedule Online for a confidential assessment and benefits verification.
Is kratom an opioid?
It’s not scheduled as an opioid, but its alkaloids act at opioid receptors and can cause dependence and withdrawal.
Is kratom safe?
No. It carries risks of addiction, withdrawal, contamination, and interactions—especially when mixed with other substances.
Do you build up a tolerance to kratom?
Yes. Over time, higher amounts may be needed for the same effects.
What are common kratom side effects?
Nausea, constipation, sweating, tremor, anxiety, insomnia, palpitations, elevated blood pressure.
What are the heart symptoms of kratom?
Palpitations, elevated blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat have been reported.
What are the symptoms of kratom overdose?
Severe sleepiness/unresponsiveness, slowed or stopped breathing, seizures, blue lips/fingertips, severe confusion, very fast/irregular heartbeat.
Is kratom bad for your body long term?
Yes. Risks include dependence, mood/cognitive changes, and potential liver injury.
Is kratom illegal in any state?
Laws vary and change; some states/localities restrict or ban kratom. Check official local guidance.
What are the three types of kratom?
Marketing categories (red/white/green vein) are common; potency and effects vary, and labels may not reflect pharmacology.
What opioid is kratom most similar to?
Pharmacologically it’s unique; some features resemble certain prescription opioids, but products vary widely.
Can kratom make you high?
Euphoria is reported at higher doses; this contributes to misuse risk.
Does kratom deplete nutrients?
Research is limited; chronic GI effects and poor diet during heavy use may contribute to deficiencies.
Can you mix kratom with alcohol?
No. Combining depressants raises overdose and breathing risks.
Kratom and prescription opioids—safe?
No. Heightened risk of dangerous respiratory depression.
When does kratom withdrawal start?
Often 6–12 hours after last use; peak days 1–3; improvement typically begins after.
What medication is used for kratom withdrawal?
Suboxone® (buprenorphine/naloxone) may reduce withdrawal and cravings; your clinician will personalize care.
Should I detox from kratom at home?
Not recommended. Medical oversight reduces complications and relapse risk.
What is kratom detox and tapering?
Gradual dose reduction under medical supervision; often combined with medication-assisted treatment.
Will I need Suboxone forever?
Not necessarily. Duration depends on individual needs; many taper under medical supervision.
Is kratom treatment covered by insurance?
CleanSlate accepts most major plans; we verify benefits prior to your first visit.
Where can I find kratom addiction treatment near me?
Use our location finder or call 833-505-4673 and we’ll help you get started.
Can kratom cause liver issues?
Cases have been reported; any jaundice, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain warrants medical evaluation.
Is there a safe dose of kratom?
No safe or standardized dose exists due to unregulated potency and contamination risks.
What is better for pain, kratom or CBD?
CBD does not act at opioid receptors and has a different safety profile; discuss safer pain strategies with your clinician.
Does kratom show up as opioids on tests?
Typically no, unless the panel specifically tests for kratom alkaloids/metabolites.
Medical review: Dr. Adeyemi Fatoki, CleanSlate Regional Medical Director
Last reviewed: September 23, 2025
Care setting: Outpatient; telehealth available for patients in advanced recovery
Contact: 833-505-4673
Hours (Patient Support Center): Mon–Thu 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET; Fri 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET; Sat 8 a.m.–12 p.m. ET
Emergency: Call 911
