Find Kratom Drug Test Military Answers and Guidance

Can Military Drug Tests Detect Kratom?

Military drug testing can feel confusing, especially when you’re hearing different “panel” lists and rumors online.

This page from TriCareRehabs.com is a general overview of how DoD’s drug-testing program is structured, how kratom fits into DoD supplement and readiness policy, and what practical next steps can look like if you’re worried about a test or a result.

Policies and lab scopes can change over time, and details can vary by Service, unit, and the circumstances of the test.

Read our full resource to learn more, and visit our takeaways for a quick summary.

Military drug-testing and discipline policies can vary by Service, command, location, and the facts of a situation. This page is general educational information – it is not legal advice, not medical advice, and not official Department of Defense (DoD) guidance. If you’re facing possible adverse action, consider speaking with your chain of command and legal counsel/JAG for situation-specific direction. (DoD drug testing is governed by DoD/Service policy and implementing instructions.)

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911. If you’re in the U.S. and need urgent emotional support, call/text 988.

Quick Takeaways – TL;DR

• The DoD Military Personnel Drug Abuse Testing Program is built primarily around urinalysis (urine specimen collection), with specific “collection premises” (the reason for the test) and standardized laboratory procedures.

• Kratom (mitragynine/7-hydroxymitragynine) is treated as prohibited for Service members in the DoD dietary supplement policy ecosystem (via DoDI 6130.06 and the OPSS prohibited ingredients list).

• A DoD memo directed Military Departments to adopt punitive orders/regulations addressing kratom products (effective date referenced in the memo), and Services may issue their own implementing guidance (for example, Navy/Marine Corps guidance addresses kratom).

• Whether kratom is detected in “routine” testing is a separate question: routine urinalysis focuses on analytes described in DoD technical procedures; substances outside that scope generally require special testing pathways and will vary by circumstances.

• If you’re notified of a positive result or you’re worried about risk: ask whether the result reflects confirmatory testing, ask what collection premise was used, and involve the right supports (command/medical/legal) based on your situation.

• If you’re struggling with kratom or other substance use, support is available. Seeking help early is a health-first step.

What is Kratom and What Are 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?

Within DoD’s dietary supplement policy framework, DoDI 6130.06 states: Service members will not use products containing ingredients on the DoD Prohibited Dietary Supplement Ingredients List, and OPSS maintains that list in compliance with the instruction.

OPSS also publishes kratom-focused updates and warnings for the military community, and Service-specific messages may add additional clarity (for example, Navy/Marine Corps guidance addresses kratom and related compounds).

In addition, a DoD memo addresses the adoption of punitive orders/regulations related to kratom products, emphasizing an enforceable, readiness-oriented approach (implementation details can vary by Service).

Bottom line: Even when a substance is “legal” in some civilian jurisdictions, DoD/Service policy can still treat it as prohibited for Service members.

Does Kratom Show Up on a Military Drug Test?

This is where a lot of online confusion happens.

DoD technical procedures define what DoD forensic labs are authorized to screen and confirm under the routine military drug testing program.

Kratom alkaloids (such as mitragynine/7-hydroxymitragynine) are not described as routine analytes in the same way as the core substances covered by the standard DoD tables.

When a command has a need to test for a substance outside routine scope, DoD technical procedures describe special testing request pathways (“other special testing requests”), which can involve coordination steps and approved laboratories.

Practical takeaway: A substance can be prohibited even if it’s not a routine analyte in standard urinalysis – and a command’s ability to pursue specialized testing can vary by circumstances.

Knowing the Types of Military Drug Tests for Kratom

For most Service members, what people call a “military drug test” is the DoD urinalysis program. DoD policy recognizes multiple collection premises (the “why” behind a collection), and the premise can matter for process and downstream handling.

Examples commonly referenced in DoD policy include inspection (random), probable cause, consent, medical, rehabilitation, mishap/safety, and command-directed testing.

If you’re trying to understand your situation, a practical, non-confrontational question is:
“What collection premise/code was used for this test?”

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.

The Impact on Military Readiness and a Note on Related Supplements

NIH also notes reported side effects (including serious but rarer reports) and the risk of dependence/withdrawal in some people. (see links to sources in the Resource and References section at the article conclusion)

From a military-readiness standpoint, the concern is not only health risk but also unpredictable effects, product variability, and supplement contamination/mislabeled ingredients – especially in products marketed as “natural,” “herbal,” or “legal alternatives.” DoD’s supplement policy framework is built to reduce these risks.

A note on “workarounds” (Spice, hemp/CBD, delta-8, etc.)

If you’re here because someone suggested kratom or another product as a “safer alternative,” be cautious: OPSS routinely warns that many products marketed as alternatives can still carry serious policy and health risk.

If you’re wondering about synthetic cannabinoids specifically, see Does Spice show up on a military drug test?

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 drug tests do detect Spice and K2, as well as similar synthetic cannabinoids, 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 Confirmatory Testing for Kratom in the Military

DoD technical procedures describe a workflow that includes initial testing (screening) and confirmatory testing using standardized lab methods and cutoffs, depending on the substance/class.

The details are technical, but the big picture is: an initial screen is not the same thing as a confirmed result.

If you’re notified of a positive, it’s reasonable to ask whether what you’re being told reflects confirmed results and what documentation is needed for any lawful prescriptions or medical context.

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.

If You are Worried About a Test Result: Practical Next Steps

If you’re stressed right now, you’re not alone – and you don’t have to guess.

1. Ask what the collection premise was (inspection/random, probable cause, etc.).

2. Ask whether the result you’re hearing about reflects confirmatory testing (screen vs confirmation are not the same).

3. Document anything relevant and lawful, especially prescriptions and care you’re receiving through legitimate medical channels.

4. Use the right support for the right question:

   • Chain of command / installation DDR for process and premise basics (what code, what happens next).

   • Medical for health concerns, medication lists, and symptoms.

   • Legal assistance/JAG if adverse action is being considered (not legal advice).

5. If substance use is becoming hard to control, consider confidential support and treatment resources early.

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!

References and More Resources (Updated Jan 2026)

Department of Defense. (2025). DoD Instruction 1010.01: Military Personnel Drug Abuse Testing Program (MPDATP) (Incorporating Change 2, August 21, 2025). https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/101001p.pdf

Department of Defense. (2024). DoD Instruction 1010.16: Technical Procedures for the Military Personnel Drug Abuse Testing Program (MPDATP). https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/101016p.pdf

Department of Defense. (2022). DoD Instruction 6130.06: Use of Dietary Supplements in the Department of Defense (Incorporating Change 1, July 19, 2022). https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/613006p.pdf

Office of Dietary Supplements, Operation Supplement Safety (OPSS). (n.d.). DoD Prohibited Dietary Supplement Ingredients List. https://www.opss.org/dod-prohibited-dietary-supplement-ingredients

Operation Supplement Safety (OPSS). (2025, October 7). Kratom and 7-OH: Significant risks to health. https://www.opss.org/article/kratom-and-7-oh-significant-risks-health?

Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. (2025, September 15). Adoption of punitive general orders or regulations to address use of Kratom products [Memorandum]. https://www.opss.org/sites/default/files/uploads/documents/2025/09/15/Adoption%20of%20Punitive%20General%20Orders%20or%20Regulations%20to%20Address%20Use%20of%20Kratom%20Products.pdf

Office of the Law Revision Counsel, U.S. House of Representatives. (2026). 10 U.S.C. § 815 (Article 15): Commanding officer’s non-judicial punishment. https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?edition=prelim&req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title10-section815

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2022, April). Kratom. National Institutes of Health. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/kratom