Can Military Drug Tests Detect Kratom

Routine drug screenings are a common element of military drug policies, ensuring military personnel are staying healthy and responsible. When it comes to a kratom drug test, military personnel should know exactly what to expect. If you have been experimenting with Kratom and are a military service member, you may be wondering if there will be repercussions to face.

While it is not a controlled substance, the Department of Defense (DoD) did recently ban Kratom use amongst military members. If you have been using kratom and have a military drug test coming up, it is important to know how you can prepare.

What is Kratom and Its Effects

Kratom, from the plant Mitragyna speciosa, is native to Southeast Asia and is used for its stimulant and opioid-like properties. Commonly used as a dietary supplement, Kratom has active compounds mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine that bind to opioid receptors in the brain.

Many use kratom for pain relief, anxiety and energy. But its legal status and effects are controversial especially in the military.

Is Kratom Legal for Military Personnel?

Kratom is legal in many parts of the US but is strictly prohibited for active duty military personnel. The Department of Defense (DoD) has banned its use among service members citing safety concerns, potential dependency and side effects. The Army, Air Force and Navy have all issued guidance prohibiting its use regardless of its legality in civilian life. Service members caught using kratom can face administrative action and separation from service.

Types of Military Drug Tests

The military uses several types of drug tests to detect various forms of substance use and to ensure service members are drug free. The most common is urinalysis which involves analyzing urine samples for drugs.

This test is highly effective in detecting recent drug use and is administered across all branches of the military.

Blood tests are used when there is suspicion of recent drug use. These standard drug screenings can detect substances in the bloodstream within hours of ingestion making them useful for identifying service members who may be under the influence.

Hair follicle tests are used to detect long term drug use. By analyzing hair follicles these tests can detect drug use over several months providing a comprehensive view of a service member’s drug use history. Although less common, saliva tests are also used to detect recent drug use. These tests are useful when immediate results are needed as they can detect substances within hours of ingestion.

Does Kratom Show Up on a Military Drug Test?

Standard military drug tests like the DoD’s urine test don’t test for kratom. The typical panel tests for THC, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines and benzos. But specialized tests can detect kratom metabolites if there’s a reason to suspect use. While routine screenings may not catch kratom, command can request additional testing if they suspect a service member is using it. More research is needed to fully understand kratom’s detection and implications in military drug tests.

Can the Military Test Specifically for Kratom?

Yes, the military can test for kratom if needed. Although not part of the standard drug test panel, specialized labs can detect kratom alkaloids in urine, blood or hair samples. If a service member is suspected of using kratom, the military may order a targeted test especially if there are behavioral or health concerns related to its use. It’s recommended for service members to avoid using kratom because of its prohibition and risks.

How Long Does Kratom Stay in Your System?

The detection window for kratom varies depending on several factors: metabolism, frequency of use and dosage. On average:

• Urine: Kratom can be detected in urine for up to 7 days, chronic users may test positive for longer.
• Blood: Kratom is usually detectable in the bloodstream for a couple of days in heavy users.
• Hair: Like other substances kratom may be detectable in hair follicles for up to 90 days, but this test is rarely used for kratom.
• Saliva: There is limited research on saliva testing for kratom but it’s believed to be detectable for a short period after ingestion.

Why is Kratom Banned in the Military? Understanding Its Opioid Like Effects

Kratom is banned for military personnel for several reasons:

1. Potential for Addiction: Kratom has effects similar to other opioid pain relievers and long term use can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms similar to traditional opioids.
2. Adverse Health Effects: Side effects include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation and in some cases hallucinations or seizures.
3. No FDA Regulation: The FDA does not regulate kratom, so there’s no standardized dosage or purity level, increasing the risk of contamination or overdose.
4. Impaired Performance: The military requires personnel to be in top physical and mental condition. Kratom’s potential psychoactive effects effects can impair judgment, reaction time and overall operational readiness, putting service members and their units at risk.
5. Negative Legal and Career Consequences: Even if kratom doesn’t show up on standard drug tests, being caught using it can result in disciplinary action, including discharge from the military.

Common Drugs Detected in Military Tests

Military drug tests test for a wide range of substances to ensure service members are fit for duty. Commonly detected drugs include marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamines and various prescription medications. Opioids like hydrocodone and oxycodone are also frequently detected in these tests because of their potential for abuse and dependency.

In addition to these substances, military tests detect synthetic cannabinoids like K2 and Spice which are often used as alternatives to marijuana. Designer drugs like bath salts and flakka are also on the radar because of their dangerous and unpredictable effects. Although not part of the standard panel, kratom a plant based substance with opioid like effects can be detected in specialized military drug tests if there’s a reason to suspect use.

False Positives and Kratom

False positives in military drug tests can be a big issue especially with substances like kratom. Kratom contains compounds that are structurally similar to opioid metabolites which can sometimes result in false positives for opioids. This can be particularly problematic for service members who may not be aware of the potential for such results.

While kratom is not typically detected in standard military drug tests, specialized tests can detect its active compounds. But these tests are not commonly used in routine screenings. Service members who use kratom may be at risk of a false positive result especially if they are taking other medications or substances that can interact with kratom. It’s important for service members to be aware of these risks and avoid using kratom to prevent any potential issues with military drug testing.

What Happens If a Service Member Is Caught Using Kratom?

If a service member is caught using kratom – or any other prohibited substances for that matter – the consequences can be severe. Disciplinary action may include:

• Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP): Under Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) service members may face NJP which can result in rank reduction, loss of pay or extra duties.
• Court-Martial: In severe cases service members may face a court-martial and imprisonment or dishonorable discharge.
• Administrative Separation: The military may separate the service member for drug abuse or failure to meet conduct standards.

Service members can go to the FAQs for more information on kratom.

Can Kratom Be Defended in the Military?

In cases where a service member tests positive for kratom or is accused of using it, defense options may include:

• No Knowledge: If a service member unknowingly consumed kratom, such as through a supplement that had it as an unlisted ingredient, this could be a mitigating factor.
• Medical or Psychological Reasons: If kratom was used for a medical reason, such as pain management, a legal argument can be made but this is not a guarantee against disciplinary action.
• Legal Counsel: Service members facing disciplinary action for kratom use should see a lawyer.

Get Help Finding Kratom Treatment Options Today

Kratom is a controversial substance for military personnel. While it may work for some users, the risks far outweigh any benefits for service members. DoD has made it clear kratom is not allowed and service members who use it will face disciplinary action and career consequences.

Since kratom doesn’t always show up on drug tests, some may think they can use it with impunity but the military can test for it if they want to. To stay compliant and protect their career service members should avoid kratom and seek approved alternatives for pain, stress and fatigue.

In the end the best choice for military personnel is to follow policy, prioritize health and performance and stay informed about what they put in their body. If you are struggling with kratom abuse and are concerned it is going to effect your ability to serve, Tricare Rehabs is here to help.

We can help connect you with specialized military addiction treatment programs and get you back on the path of a happier, healthier life. Reach out to us to learn more today.

All calls are kept confidential, so please get options for support today!