Does Kratom Show Up On A Drug Test? All The Facts

Hadiqa Abdullah | June 5, 2024

Find out if kratom shows up on a drug test, how long it stays in your system, and the legal implications of its use.

Everything You Need to Know: Does Kratom Show Up On A Drug Test?

Kratom, a herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the kratom plant (Mitragyna speciosa), has gained popularity for its potential to provide pain relief, boost energy, and enhance mood. However, as its use becomes more widespread, many users are concerned about its potential to show up on drug tests. Understanding how kratom interacts with the body and the types of drug tests that may detect it is crucial for users who are subject to regular screening.

This comprehensive guide will explore whether kratom shows up on standard drug tests, how it works in the body, and the various factors that influence its detection. Whether you are a regular user or considering trying kratom, this guide will provide you with all the facts you need to know about kratom and drug testing.

Introduction to Kratom and Drug Testing

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. The leaves of the kratom plant contain compounds that can produce stimulant effects in low doses and sedative effects in higher doses. These properties have made kratom popular for managing pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal symptoms.

As kratom use becomes more common, questions arise about its detectability in drug tests. Drug testing is a common practice in many workplaces, particularly in industries where safety is a concern. Standard drug tests typically screen for substances such as THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines. However, kratom is not one of the substances routinely included in these tests.

Despite this, there are specialized tests that can detect kratom and its metabolites. Understanding the types of tests and their capabilities is essential for users who need to navigate the complexities of drug testing while using kratom.

What is Kratom? An Overview

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant belonging to the coffee family. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia. The leaves of the kratom plant can be chewed, dried and brewed into tea, or processed into capsules and powders. The active compounds in kratom, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects similar to opioids, although kratom is not classified as an opioid.

Kratom's effects vary depending on the dosage. At low doses, it acts as a stimulant, increasing energy, alertness, and sociability. At higher doses, it has sedative effects, providing pain relief, relaxation, and a sense of well-being. Due to these properties, kratom is used for various purposes, including pain management, anxiety reduction, and alleviating symptoms of opioid withdrawal.

How Kratom Works in the Body?

When consumed, the active compounds in kratom bind to opioid receptors in the brain, particularly the mu, delta, and kappa receptors. Mitragynine, the most abundant alkaloid in kratom, is primarily responsible for its stimulant effects, while 7-hydroxymitragynine is more potent and contributes to kratom's analgesic and sedative properties.

After ingestion, kratom is metabolized by the liver, where it is broken down into several metabolites. These metabolites are then excreted through the kidneys and eliminated in the urine. The metabolism and excretion process can vary depending on several factors, including the user's age, body weight, metabolic rate, and overall health.

Types of Drug Tests and Their Detection Capabilities

Drug testing is a common practice in many workplaces, healthcare settings, and legal situations. Various types of drug tests are designed to detect the presence of specific substances in the body. Each type of drug test has its own detection capabilities and suitability for different scenarios.

1. Urine Tests: The most common type of drug test, urine tests, are used to detect a wide range of substances, including THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines. They are popular due to their non-invasive nature, cost-effectiveness, and relatively long detection windows for many substances.

2. Blood Tests: Blood tests are more invasive and less commonly used than urine tests but provide accurate results. They can detect substances in the bloodstream shortly after use, making them suitable for determining current impairment.

3. Saliva Tests: Saliva tests are gaining popularity for their ease of administration and non-invasive nature. They are effective for detecting recent drug use, typically within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the substance.

4. Hair Tests: Hair tests have the longest detection window, capable of detecting drug use for up to 90 days or more. They are less common due to their higher cost and more invasive sample collection process.

5. Breath Tests: Primarily used for alcohol detection, breath tests measure the alcohol content in a person's breath. They are widely used in law enforcement and workplace settings for immediate results.

Does Kratom Show Up on Standard Drug Tests?

Standard drug tests typically screen for a set panel of substances, including THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines. Kratom is not one of the substances routinely included in these panels, so it generally does not show up on standard drug tests. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

Specificity of Tests: Standard drug tests are designed to detect specific metabolites associated with common drugs of abuse. Since kratom and its metabolites are not included in these panels, they are unlikely to be detected.
Workplace Policies: Some employers may choose to include additional substances in their testing protocols. If an employer specifically tests for kratom, it would require specialized testing methods.
Cross-Reactivity: In rare cases, substances in kratom products could potentially cause false positives for other substances on a standard drug test, although this is uncommon.

Does Kratom Show Up On A Drug Test

Specialized Tests for Kratom Detection

While kratom does not show up on standard drug tests, specialized tests can be designed to detect kratom and its metabolites. These tests are more targeted and require specific analytical techniques.

1. Immunoassay Tests: Immunoassays can be developed to detect specific metabolites of kratom, such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These tests use antibodies that bind to these metabolites, indicating their presence in the sample.

2. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS): GC-MS is a highly sensitive and accurate method used to confirm the presence of specific substances. It can detect and quantify kratom metabolites with high precision, making it suitable for specialized testing.

3. Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS): Similar to GC-MS, LC-MS/MS is used for the precise detection and quantification of kratom metabolites. This method is particularly useful for detecting low levels of substances in various sample types.

Comparison Table: Standard Drug Tests vs. Specialized Kratom Tests

Test Type	Standard Drug Tests	Specialized Kratom Tests
Substances Detected	THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, etc.	Mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine
Detection Methods	Immunoassay, GC-MS, LC-MS/MS	Immunoassay, GC-MS, LC-MS/MS
Routine Inclusion	Commonly included substances	Requires specific testing request
Sample Types	Urine, blood, saliva, hair, breath	Urine, blood
Cost	Generally lower	Higher due to specialized nature
Usage	Workplace, legal, medical	Research, specific employer request

Factors Influencing Kratom Detection in Drug Tests

Several factors influence whether kratom will be detected in a drug test, including the type of test used and individual differences in metabolism and usage patterns.

Dosage: Higher doses of kratom result in more metabolites and a longer detection window. Regular users who consume larger quantities are more likely to test positive in a specialized test.
Frequency of Use: Chronic use can lead to the accumulation of kratom metabolites in the body, increasing the likelihood of detection.
Individual Metabolism: Metabolic rate varies between individuals, affecting how quickly kratom is processed and eliminated. Factors such as age, body weight, and overall health play a role.
Type of Kratom Product: The form in which kratom is consumed, such as kratom powders, kratom capsules, or kratom shots, can influence the absorption rate and metabolism.
Hydration and Diet: Proper hydration and a healthy diet can affect how efficiently the body metabolizes and excretes kratom.
Concurrent Substances: Using other substances alongside kratom may impact its metabolism and detection. For example, consuming kratom with alcohol or medications can alter its effects and excretion rate.
Testing Method Sensitivity: The sensitivity and specificity of the test used will determine its ability to detect kratom. Specialized tests designed to target kratom metabolites are more likely to yield positive results.

How Long Does Kratom Stay in Your System?

The duration that kratom remains detectable in your system depends on various factors, including the kratom dosage, frequency of use, individual metabolism, and the type of kratom product consumed. Typically, kratom's active compounds, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, have a half-life of approximately 7 to 9 hours. However, individual factors can significantly influence this duration.

For occasional users, kratom can be detected in urine for up to 5 to 7 days after the last use. In frequent users, the detection window may extend due to the accumulation of kratom metabolites in the body. Blood tests, which are less commonly used for kratom detection, can typically identify the presence of kratom for a shorter period, usually within a few days of use. Saliva tests can detect kratom within 24 hours, while hair tests, though not common for kratom, could potentially reveal usage for up to 90 days.

Does Kratom Show Up On A Drug Test

Individual metabolism also plays a crucial role in how long kratom stays in the system. Factors such as age, body weight, liver function, and overall health can impact the rate at which kratom is metabolized and eliminated. Additionally, the type of kratom product—whether kratom powders, kratom capsules, or kratom shots—can influence absorption rates and metabolism.

Legal Implications of Kratom Use

The legal status of kratom varies significantly across different regions, affecting its availability and the legal risks associated with its use.

United States:

Federal Level: Kratom is not classified as a controlled substance at the federal level, but the FDA has raised concerns about its safety and potential for abuse.
State Level: States have different regulations. Some states, like Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin, have banned kratom. Others have regulated it or have no specific laws.

Internationally:

Europe: Kratom is banned in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Denmark, Finland, and Poland.
Asia: In countries like Thailand and Malaysia, kratom is illegal despite its traditional use.
Australia and New Zealand: Kratom is classified as a controlled substance and is illegal to possess or use.

Users should be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding kratom to avoid legal issues.

Tips for Managing Kratom Use and Drug Testing

Managing kratom use and navigating potential drug testing scenarios require careful consideration and planning.

Stay Informed: Understand the legal status of kratom in your area and any workplace policies regarding its use.
Moderate Use: Limit the frequency and dosage of kratom to reduce the risk of accumulation in your system and potential detection in drug tests.
Hydration and Diet: Maintain proper hydration and a healthy diet to support efficient metabolism and excretion of kratom.
Disclose Use: If you are subject to regular drug testing, consider disclosing your kratom use to your employer or testing administrator, especially if it is for medical purposes.
Choose Products Wisely: Opt for high-quality kratom products from reputable sources to ensure purity and safety. Avoid products that may contain contaminants or other substances that could affect drug test results.
Timing: If you know a drug test is upcoming, consider abstaining from kratom use well in advance to ensure it is fully eliminated from your system.
Documentation: Keep documentation of your kratom use, including dosages and product types, in case you need to explain your use during a drug test.

Conclusion: Understanding Kratom and Drug Testing

Kratom, derived from the kratom plant, offers potential benefits but also raises questions about its detectability in drug tests and legal implications. While standard drug tests do not typically screen for kratom, specialized tests can detect its presence. Understanding how long kratom stays in your system and the factors influencing its detection can help users manage their use and navigate drug testing scenarios.

Staying informed about legal regulations and practicing responsible use are essential for avoiding potential legal and employment issues. As kratom continues to gain popularity, ongoing research and evolving regulations will shape its role in the wellness and supplement industry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom and Drug Tests

Can kratom be detected in a standard drug test?

No, kratom is not typically detected in standard drug tests that screen for common substances like THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines.

How long does kratom stay in your system?

Kratom can be detected in urine for up to 5 to 7 days, in blood for a few days, and in saliva for up to 24 hours. Hair tests, although rare, could potentially detect kratom for up to 90 days.

Do specialized tests exist for kratom detection?

Yes, specialized tests such as immunoassays, GC-MS, and LC-MS/MS can detect kratom and its metabolites, though they are not commonly used in standard testing.

Can kratom cause a false positive on a drug test?

In rare cases, certain compounds in kratom products might cause a false positive for other substances, but this is uncommon.

Is kratom legal in my state?

Kratom's legality varies by state. It is banned in some states like Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin, while others have no specific laws or have regulated its use.

Can kratom use affect my employment?

Yes, if your employer has specific policies against kratom or includes it in their drug testing protocols, using kratom could affect your employment.

What should I do if I need to take a drug test while using kratom?

Consider disclosing your kratom use to your employer or testing administrator, especially if it is for medical reasons. Abstaining from use well before the test can also help ensure it is not detected.