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Frequently Asked Questions

The questions everyone types into a search bar at 3 a.m., answered straight.

Is kratom really addictive?

Yes. Kratom's active alkaloids (mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine) act on mu-opioid receptors. Daily use builds tolerance and physical dependence, and stopping abruptly causes a withdrawal syndrome similar to mild-to-moderate opioid withdrawal. "It's just a plant" and "it's addictive" are both true at the same time.

How long does withdrawal last?

Acute physical withdrawal typically starts 12–24 hours after the last dose, peaks around days 2–4, and largely resolves within 7–10 days. Sleep problems, low mood, and cravings can come in waves for several more weeks before fading. The full stage-by-stage map is on the timeline page.

Is 7-OH withdrawal worse than kratom withdrawal?

Usually, yes. 7-hydroxymitragynine is a much more potent opioid-receptor agonist than leaf kratom, so tolerance builds faster and withdrawal starts sooner (often 8–16 hours) and peaks harder — many people compare it to prescription-opioid withdrawal. Details and strategies on the 7-OH page.

Can withdrawal kill you?

Opioid-type withdrawal is rarely life-threatening by itself in healthy adults — unlike alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal. But severe dehydration, heart conditions, pregnancy complications, and suicidal thoughts are real risks. Seek care for chest pain, seizures, fainting, inability to keep fluids down for 24+ hours, or thoughts of self-harm (call or text 988 in the US).

Taper or cold turkey?

Light use (under ~5 g of leaf a day): cold turkey with a prepared toolkit is very doable. Heavier use, extracts, 7-OH, or MGM-15: a ~10%-every-2–3-days taper on a fixed schedule wins on success rate — see the tapering guide. Multiple failed tapers are a signal to bring in medical support, not to try harder.

What helps most with restless legs and insomnia?

The community-consensus stack: magnesium glycinate, hot epsom-salt baths, a heating pad, and low-dose melatonin plus L-theanine at night. These are the worst and longest-lasting symptoms, peaking days 2–4. Full breakdown on the supplements page.

Does Suboxone work for these?

Yes. Doctors treat kratom, 7-OH, and MGM-15 dependence as opioid use disorder, and buprenorphine works for all three — as a short bridge-and-taper or longer maintenance. Clonidine, lofexidine, hydroxyzine, and trazodone are non-opioid prescription options. Telehealth providers handle these cases routinely — see getting help.

What is MGM-15, and is it safe?

A semi-synthetic opioid derived from the kratom alkaloid mitragynine, sold as a "kratom alternative" after 7-OH came under FDA scrutiny. It has essentially no human safety data, unverified labels, and meaningful opioid potency. Treat it as a potent short-acting opioid — including keeping Narcan around. More on the MGM-15 page.

How long do cravings last?

Longer than the physical part — expect waves for 2–8 weeks, each less frequent and less intense than the last. A wave passes in minutes to hours. Exercise, routine, a clean environment, and accountability measurably shorten this phase.

When should I see a doctor instead of DIY?

If you use high doses of 7-OH or MGM-15 daily, have failed multiple attempts, are pregnant, have heart/seizure/serious mental-health conditions, or use other substances alongside. Withdrawal-management medication exists precisely for this, and telehealth makes it a same-week thing in most US states.