Kratom Facts: Evidence-Based Education Series

Generally safe when used responsibly. Zero fatal overdoses from kratom alone in FDA data (2011-2019). 3-6% dependence rate vs 50-75% for prescription opioids. Side effects are manageable. See Article 6 for complete safety data and contraindications.

No fatal overdoses from kratom alone have been documented. High doses cause nausea and vomiting (self-limiting). All "kratom deaths" cited by FDA involved fentanyl, heroin, or other drugs. See Article 3 for myth-busting breakdown.

3-6% of users develop dependence. Withdrawal lasts 2-7 days and is mild compared to opioids (6-8 weeks for Suboxone). Compare to cannabis (30% dependence, legal in 24 states) and alcohol (15% dependence, 95K deaths/year). See Article 2 and 6 for details.

Start with 1-2 grams, not 5g. Wait 45-60 minutes. Less is more with kratom—higher doses cause nausea without increased benefits. See Article 5 for complete dosing guide, timing, rotation, and avoiding tolerance.

Standard drug tests (5-panel, 10-panel) do NOT test for kratom. Specialized kratom-specific tests exist but are rare and expensive. Some employers or probation officers may use them, so ask specifically if kratom is tested.

At normal doses (1-5g), most users report no impairment. High doses can cause sedation or wobbles (dizziness). Use the same judgment as caffeine or antihistamines: if you feel impaired, don't drive. No legal limit exists, but DUI laws apply if impaired.

Look for vendors with GMP certification, third-party lab testing (heavy metals, microbials, alkaloid content), and transparency. Avoid gas station kratom. See Article 7 for complete quality guide, vendor red flags, and how to verify lab reports.

Color (red/green/white) reflects drying method, not genetics. Red = sedating, white = energizing, green = balanced. Strain names (Maeng Da, Bali, etc.) are mostly marketing. Alkaloid content varies by harvest, not strain. See Article 1 for details.