Will Kratom Show Up On A Drug Test?

Detection in Standard Drug Tests

Kratom and its primary alkaloids are not typically detected by standard drug screening tests, such as those commonly used for employment purposes. These standard tests usually target substances like opioids, cannabinoids, amphetamines, cocaine, and benzodiazepines. Since kratom's alkaloids have distinct chemical structures from these commonly screened substances, they do not trigger positive results in standard panels.

Specialized Testing Methods

To identify the presence of kratom, more specialized testing methods are required. These methods are designed to detect mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, and their metabolites:

• Urine Tests: Specialized urine tests can detect mitragynine and its metabolites. The detection window in urine is typically up to several days post-consumption, depending on factors such as dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism.




• Blood Tests: Blood tests can measure the concentration of mitragynine, with expected levels ranging from 10–50 µg/L in individuals using kratom recreationally. Blood testing is more invasive and usually performed in specific contexts, such as clinical settings or forensic investigations.

• Hair Tests: While not commonly employed, hair testing has the potential to detect mitragynine over extended periods, reflecting long-term usage patterns. However, the application of hair testing for kratom is limited and not routinely practiced.

Analytical Techniques

The detection of kratom's alkaloids in biological fluids is typically achieved through advanced analytical techniques, such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). These methods offer high sensitivity and specificity, enabling accurate identification and quantification of mitragynine and its metabolites.

Considerations for Individuals Undergoing Testing

Individuals who use kratom and are subject to drug testing should be aware that while standard tests may not detect kratom, specialized tests can. If testing for kratom is a concern, it is advisable to disclose its use to the relevant parties, as kratom's legal status varies by region, and its use may have implications depending on specific policies or regulations.

Factors That Affect Kratom Detection in the Body

The length of time kratom remains detectable varies based on several factors:

• Dosage: Higher doses take longer to clear from the body.
• Frequency of Use: Regular users may have a longer detection window than occasional users due to accumulation in the system.
• Metabolism: Faster metabolisms process substances more quickly, shortening detection time.
• Hydration & Diet: Drinking plenty of fluids and maintaining a healthy diet may impact how quickly the body eliminates kratom.
• Liver Function: Since kratom is metabolized by the liver, individuals with liver impairments may process it more slowly.

• Urine Test: Typically detects kratom for up to 7 days in frequent users, but 1-3 days for occasional use.
• Blood Test: Detectable for a few hours to 24 hours after use.
• Saliva Test: Rarely used for kratom detection, but could theoretically identify it for a few hours after ingestion.
• Hair Test: Though not widely used, mitragynine may be traceable in hair samples for up to 90 days, similar to other substances.

• Standard drug tests do not usually confuse kratom with opioids, as their chemical structures are different.
• However, some anecdotal reports suggest that very high doses of kratom may cause a false positive for methadone in certain immunoassay drug screens.
• Confirmatory tests like GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) can differentiate kratom from other substances and rule out false positives.

Even though kratom is legal in many places, certain organizations or industries may include it in drug screening:

• Military and Government Jobs: Some branches of the military prohibit kratom use and may test for it.
• Rehabilitation & Treatment Centers: Facilities that monitor substance use may conduct specialized kratom testing.
• Competitive Sports: Some athletic organizations may restrict kratom due to its potential stimulant properties.

• As kratom gains more attention, more refined and widely available drug tests for its active compounds may be developed.
• Some employers and agencies may start routinely screening for kratom, especially in regions where regulations around its use change. 

Kratom is not typically detected in standard drug tests but can be identified through specialized testing methods, including urine, blood, and potentially hair analyses. The choice of testing method and the detection window depend on various factors, including the purpose of the test and individual usage patterns.