Does Kratom Show Up on a Drug Test?

Kratom is a natural supplement derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to Southeast Asia. Known for its stimulating and pain-relieving properties, kratom is used by millions across the U.S.—some for energy, others for relief, and increasingly for support during recovery from other substances.

But as its popularity grows, so do the questions—especially around drug testing. Whether you’re facing a pre-employment screen, on probation, preparing for surgery, or dealing with court-mandated testing, it’s natural to ask: does kratom show up on a drug test?

This article breaks down everything you need to know in 2025. We’ll cover whether kratom is included in standard drug panels, what substances it might be confused with, how long it stays in your system, and what kind of test (if any) could detect it. We’ll also address false positives and practical considerations for anyone navigating testing while using kratom.

If you're also curious about how long other substances like THC remain detectable, we’ve got you covered there too.

Will Kratom Show Up on a Drug Test?

If you're wondering whether kratom will show up on a drug test, the short answer is: not usually. Standard screenings—like the commonly used 5-panel and 10-panel drug tests—do not check for kratom or its active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.

These standard panels are designed to detect substances such as THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines. Since kratom is not classified as a controlled substance at the federal level, and its alkaloids don’t resemble those drugs chemically, it isn’t part of the routine testing panel.

However, kratom can be detected through more specialized toxicology testing. Some advanced lab tests are capable of screening for mitragynine and its metabolites, but these are typically only used in more specific circumstances—such as:

• Court-ordered or probation drug testing
• Military testing protocols
• Rehabilitation or addiction treatment programs
• Post-incident or forensic toxicology reports

If you're subject to one of these more intensive screenings, there’s a higher likelihood that kratom use could be identified. In those situations, a lab might specifically test for kratom and document it under its chemical name or as an “unusual substance” in a full-panel report.

In short, does kratom show up on a drug test? Not on a standard panel. But if you’re being tested in a more serious legal or medical context, it’s possible. That includes the possibility that kratom could show up on a 10-panel drug test only if it has been expanded or customized by the testing entity.

So while kratom doesn’t usually pop up on a drug screen, it’s smart to know the scope of the test you’re taking. In the next section, we’ll break down exactly what kratom shows up as when it’s detected.

What Does Kratom Show Up As on a Drug Test?

Kratom does not mimic opioids or other controlled substances on standard drug tests. That means you won’t get flagged for opiates, benzos, or other common drug categories simply because you used kratom—unless there’s contamination in the product you're taking.

In situations where kratom is specifically tested for, advanced lab panels may list it by name. The most common identifiers include:

• Mitragynine – the primary active compound in kratom
• 7-hydroxymitragynine – a more potent alkaloid also present in kratom
• General labels like “kratom alkaloids” or “atypical stimulants” in toxicology reports

So, what does kratom show up as on a drug test? The answer depends on the level of testing sophistication. Standard immunoassays won’t flag it, but GC/MS (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) tests used in legal, forensic, or clinical settings will.

It's also worth noting that kratom false positives are rare. Unlike some supplements or medications that trigger false flags for opiates, kratom doesn’t cross-react with most common test markers. Still, the purity of your product matters—low-quality kratom could contain contaminants that trigger unrelated positives.

If you're also wondering about how long substances like THC can stay in your body, check out our guide on weed detection timelines for a broader comparison.

Next, we’ll break down how long kratom stays in your system by test type and what factors influence detection windows.

How Long Does Kratom Stay in Your System?

The answer to how long kratom shows up on a drug test depends on several factors, but the key starting point is its half-life. The primary active compound in kratom, mitragynine, has an estimated half-life of around 24 hours for most users. That means it takes about a full day for the amount of mitragynine in your body to drop by half.

However, your detection window may vary based on:

• Dosage: Higher amounts linger longer in the system
• Frequency of use: Regular users may accumulate kratom alkaloids in fat tissue
• Metabolism: Faster metabolisms clear substances more quickly
• Age, body mass, hydration, and liver/kidney health: All play a role in elimination speed

Here's a general breakdown of how long kratom can be detected by test type:

• Urine test: Up to 5–7 days after use, especially for heavy or regular users
• Blood test: Usually ~24 hours, as mitragynine is cleared fairly quickly
• Saliva test: There is limited data, but detection is likely only within a few hours to a day
• Hair follicle test: Like many substances, kratom alkaloids may be traceable for up to 90 days

While these timelines offer a rough guide, individual results can vary widely. If you're anticipating a drug test and want to be fully informed, understanding your body’s metabolism—and the type of test being used—is essential.

In the next section, we’ll look at whether kratom can cause a false positive for other substances on common drug panels, and what to do if you’re concerned.

Can Kratom Cause a False Positive?

In most cases, kratom will not cause a false positive on a standard drug test. The active compounds in kratom—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—are not chemically similar enough to common illicit drugs to register on immunoassay panels like those used for opioids or benzodiazepines.

However, there are rare exceptions. If a kratom product is contaminated with other substances—such as trace amounts of opioids or benzos—it could potentially trigger a positive result. This is more likely with low-quality or unregulated products, which is why it’s crucial to know your source.

Testing accuracy also depends on the quality of the lab and the type of test being used. If you’re taking a kratom supplement and are concerned about misidentification, it’s a good idea to bring the product packaging or bottle with you to the test. This transparency can help clear up any confusion if unusual results occur.

If you're focused on general wellness or supporting your body's natural cleansing process, explore our detox drink collection.

Next, we’ll walk through what you can do to feel more prepared if you're facing a drug test and kratom use is on your mind.

What to Do If You’re Worried About Kratom and Drug Testing

If you’re facing an upcoming drug test and have used kratom recently, it’s normal to feel a little anxious. The good news is that kratom is not part of most standard drug screens, like 5-panel or 10-panel tests. But if you’ve been told the test includes expanded panels or specific screening for kratom alkaloids, it’s best to be prepared.

Start with the basics: stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and get adequate sleep in the days leading up to the test. These lifestyle habits help your body process and eliminate substances more efficiently. If you're in a legal or medical environment where disclosure is safe, being honest about your use may actually help avoid complications—especially with procedures involving anesthesia.

For those who want to support general wellness before a test, some people use detox drinks or herbal cleansing supplements. These aren’t designed to “beat” a test, but may help you feel more confident about your body’s natural elimination process.

If you suspect the test is targeting kratom specifically—such as in court, rehab, or military contexts—it’s wise to consult a legal or medical professional for personalized advice. Always prioritize your safety and compliance over guesswork.

Next, let’s wrap up with a quick recap of what we’ve learned.

Conclusion: Does Kratom Show Up on a Drug Test?

In most cases, kratom does not appear on standard 5-panel or 10-panel drug tests. However, if you’re undergoing specialized testing—such as for probation, military service, or addiction treatment—kratom can be detected through targeted screening for its active compounds, like mitragynine.

The takeaway? Know what kind of test you’re taking and be informed about your options. Whether you're navigating a surprise screening or just being cautious, understanding detection timelines and test types is key to responsible kratom use.

For a broader overview of how long substances remain detectable, visit our complete guide to drug detection times.