Is Kratom Habit Forming? Tennessee’s Virtual Recovery Answers

Is kratom habit forming? Many Tennesseans ask this question as they search for safe alternatives to opioids or struggle with kratom use themselves. While kratom is often marketed as “natural” or “safe,” research shows it can be addictive, leading to dependence, withdrawal, and serious health risks. If you or someone you love is caught in the cycle of kratom or opioid use, Recovery Care of Columbia is here with a proven, virtual treatment solution.

What is Kratom and Why Do People Use It?

Kratom is an herbal substance derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to Southeast Asia. In low doses, it acts like a stimulant; in higher doses, it produces opioid-like effects.

Many people in Tennessee—whether in Columbia, Clarksville, Chattanooga, Knoxville, or Memphis—turn to kratom because they want relief from pain, stress, or opioid withdrawal. Unfortunately, because kratom interacts with the brain’s opioid receptors, it carries the same risks of dependence, withdrawal, and addiction.

The FDA, DEA, and SAMHSA have all warned that kratom is not an approved medication and can be habit forming, potentially leading to overdose or dangerous interactions with other drugs (FDA source).

Trusted Telemedicine Addiction Treatment for Kratom and 7-OH/7-Hydroxy Addiction in Tennessee

Recovery Care of Columbia provides evidence-based Suboxone treatment for Kratom/7-OH addiction through secure telemedicine, staffed by licensed Tennessee clinicians. No clinic visits required.

Register for telemedicine Suboxone treatment using your TennCare Medicaid, commercial insurance, or choose a payment plan. (A sliding-scale program is also available) Click here if you’re a returning patient. 

Is Kratom Habit Forming?

Yes. Studies confirm that kratom is habit forming because it contains alkaloids that bind to the same receptors as opioids. Over time, people may need larger doses to achieve the same effects, leading to:

  • Physical dependence
  • Tolerance
  • Withdrawal symptoms when stopping
  • Increased risk of overdose, especially when mixed with opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines

Just like with oxycodone, heroin, or fentanyl, many people who start kratom use to “manage” withdrawal symptoms eventually find themselves dependent on it.

The Dangers of Kratom Addiction

While some people believe kratom is “safer” than opioids, the risks are serious:

  • Overdose potential: Especially when mixed with other substances.
  • Legal risks: Kratom is under DEA watch and could be scheduled federally.
  • Withdrawal symptoms: Restlessness, sweating, body aches, depression, and cravings.
  • Mental health impact: Anxiety, depression, and worsening emotional instability.

SAMHSA reports that substance use disorders—including kratom—can increase the risk of overdose and even death.

Safe Solutions: TeleMAT with Suboxone

At Recovery Care of Columbia, we know the struggle of dependence. That’s why we pioneered TeleMAT (Telemedicine Medication-Assisted Treatment) in Tennessee—the first clinic in the state to be licensed to provide addiction care entirely online.

How Our Virtual Suboxone Program Works

Choose your registration path:

Not sure if your insurance covers virtual addiction treatment? Check your insurance coverage now.

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

Call or text us now at (931) 548-3062 to speak to someone about our telemedicine Suboxone program. Or, message us securely on the Spruce Health mobile app. We’re ready to help.

Who We Treat

We help adults 18 to 65 who struggle with opioid addiction or kratom dependence. Our patients are often:

  • Parents who want to be present for their kids.
  • Workers tired of chasing pills to stay stable.
  • People with prior legal issues or hardships.
  • Tennesseans in rural areas without reliable transportation.
  • Those who tried quitting on their own but fear withdrawal.

FAQs About Kratom and Recovery

Is kratom habit forming like opioids?

Yes. Kratom can create dependence and addiction similar to prescription opioids.

What are common kratom withdrawal symptoms?

Anxiety, sweating, nausea, muscle aches, depression, and cravings.

Can Suboxone help with kratom withdrawal?

Yes. Suboxone can ease opioid-like withdrawal symptoms from kratom, making the transition safer and more comfortable.

How quickly can I start treatment?

At Recovery Care of Columbia, you can receive a prescription the same day as your first appointment.

Do I need to travel to a clinic?

No. With TeleMAT, all appointments are online—you never have to leave your home.

Why Patients Choose Recovery Care for Kratom Addiction Treatment

Our kind staff is happy to answer any questions you may have. Call us or send us a text at (931) 548-3062, or message us securely using the Spruce Health mobile app.

Suboxone works by eliminating opioid withdrawal and cravings—making the transition away from opioids or kratom much easier.

Related Articles

Explore More Kratom/7-OH Recovery Resources

Struggling with kratom withdrawal? Read our full Kratom Withdrawal & Treatment Guide in Tennessee

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