Is Kratom Addictive? What Tennessee Residents Need to Know

Name: Nashville Addiction Clinic
Price range: $$$

Is kratom addictive? Many Tennessee residents are asking this question as kratom, a herbal product often marketed as “natural” and “safe,” grows in popularity. But behind the hype lies a serious risk of dependence and withdrawal—similar to opioids. For individuals between 18 to 65 years old struggling with addiction, the good news is that safe, effective treatments are available without ever needing to visit a clinic.

At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we’ve helped over 1,000 patients across Tennessee safely transition away from opioids and kratom through TeleMAT® (telemedicine medication-assisted treatment). With six years of experience, Joint Commission accreditation, and over 250 five-star reviews, we’ve created a recovery experience where patients are treated with kindness, respect, and real solutions that work.

Get Help for Kratom Addiction Today

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We accept all major health insurance, such as BCBS, Cigna, Ambetter, and United Healthcare, as well as all TennCare Medicaid insurance: Amerigroup Community Care, BlueCare, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Wellpoint Community Care.
Same-day appointments and Suboxone prescriptions are often available when fully-registered before 10:00 am Central Time. (based on availability)

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Experience a safe transition from hydrocodone, oxycodone, OxyContin, heroin, fentanyl, methadone, morphine, Kratom, 7-OH (7-Hydroxy-opioids), Norcos, Percocet, Roxicodone, Vicodin, Tianeptine, Tramadol, Opana, codeine, oxymorphone, and other opioids.

If you would like to speak to someone about our telemedicine Suboxone program, please call or text us at (615) 927-7802. You can also message us securely on the Spruce Health mobile app.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia. It’s sold in smoke shops, gas stations, and online as powders, capsules, and extracts. Some people use it to boost energy, relieve pain, or self-treat opioid withdrawal.

However, research shows that kratom can act on the same opioid receptors in the brain as hydrocodone, morphine, or fentanyl, which makes it habit-forming (FDA, DEA).

Is Kratom Addictive?

Yes—kratom is addictive. Studies confirm that regular use can cause tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms that mirror opioid addiction.

Common Signs of Kratom Addiction

Needing more kratom to feel the same effects
Withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, nausea, sweating, or irritability
Spending large amounts of money on kratom products
Using kratom daily to “function normally”
Failed attempts to cut down or quit

For many in Tennessee—from Memphis to Murfreesboro, Clarksville to Knoxville—kratom addiction often starts as a way to avoid opioid withdrawal. But over time, kratom creates its own cycle of dependence and craving.

The Dangers of Kratom Dependence

While some people believe kratom is “safer than opioids,” the truth is that kratom carries serious risks, including:

Increased risk of seizures
Dangerous interactions with medications
Liver damage
Possible contamination with heavy metals or other drugs
Overdose risk, especially when mixed with opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) warns that untreated opioid or kratom addiction can lead to overdose or even death.

Treatment for Kratom and Opioid Addiction in Tennessee

At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we specialize in helping patients stop taking kratom and opioids without the pain of withdrawal. Our TeleMAT program provides:

Same-day Suboxone prescriptions sent to your local pharmacy or delivered overnight
Virtual appointments with doctors, counselors, and master’s-level therapists
No need for clinic visits—all care is 100% online
Flexible payment options including TennCare, commercial insurance, self-pay, and sliding-scale programs

We’ve pioneered telemedicine addiction treatment in Tennessee, becoming the first clinic in the state to earn a virtual medical license for addiction care.

Why Patients Choose Nashville Addiction Clinic

Over 6 years of trusted experience
1,000+ Tennessee residents treated through TeleMAT
Joint Commission accredited for quality and safety
Kind, compassionate staff—many in recovery themselves
Over 100 five-star Google reviews (see reviews)
Easy registration options:

FAQs: Is Kratom Addictive

Is kratom addictive like opioids?

Yes. Kratom activates the same brain receptors as opioids, which can cause dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal.

What are kratom withdrawal symptoms?

People often experience anxiety, irritability, sweating, runny nose, nausea, and intense cravings.

How quickly can you become dependent on kratom?

Dependence can develop within a few weeks of daily use. The timeline varies depending on dosage, frequency, and individual factors, but regular use significantly increases the risk.

What are the signs of kratom addiction?

Common signs include:

Needing higher doses to feel the same effects
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping
Cravings or inability to cut back
Using despite negative consequences

Is 7-hydroxymitragynine more addictive than regular kratom?

Yes. 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a more potent alkaloid found in kratom, especially in extracts. It binds strongly to opioid receptors, increasing the risk of dependence and more severe withdrawal.

Can Suboxone help with kratom addiction?

Yes. Suboxone can reduce cravings and eliminate withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to stop using kratom.

Do I need to come into a clinic?

No. With TeleMAT, you’ll never need to step into a clinic. All care is provided through secure telemedicine appointments.

How fast can I start treatment?

Most patients receive same-day prescriptions after their first appointment.

Call, Text, or Click to Begin Treatment for Kratom Addiction—Anywhere in Tennessee

If you or a loved one is struggling with kratom or opioid dependence, you are not alone. At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we provide safe, effective, and compassionate treatment that works.

📱There’s No Need to Continue Suffering Withdrawals from Kratom

Call or text us at (615) 927-7802, or send us a secure message through the Spruce Health mobile app to begin your recovery journey.

External Resources

7-OH Treatment Online, Kratom Help Tennessee, Kratom Telemedicine, Virtual Kratom Recovery

(615) 927-7802