Does Kratom Show Up on a Standard Drug Test?
It’s one of the most common questions surrounding kratom: Will it show up on a drug screen?
The answer depends on what the test is designed to detect.
Common workplace drug testing panels generally screen for specific substances or drug classes. Kratom’s primary alkaloid, mitragynine, is not typically included in standard workplace drug testing panels. That means a test labeled 5-panel, 10-panel, or even a larger panel should not automatically be assumed to include kratom.
This is an important distinction.
Because kratom’s compounds interact with opioid receptors, some people assume an opiate or opioid panel will detect it. But kratom is chemically different from traditional opioids, and routine opiate screening is generally not designed to identify its primary compounds.
Kratom testing requires a test specifically designed to screen for kratom-related compounds, such as mitragynine. Specialized testing options may also target 7-hydroxymitragynine, often shortened to 7-OH, depending on the test and its intended use.
For employers, treatment and recovery programs, and other organizations, the lesson is simple: don't rely on the number printed on the box.
A larger drug panel does not necessarily mean it tests for kratom. Review the individual analytes included in the test to understand exactly what is being screened.
In Part 3, we'll look at when organizations may consider adding kratom testing to their screening programs.
Fact Friday takeaway:
Standard drug testing panels generally don't screen for kratom. If kratom detection is needed, look for a test specifically designed to include the appropriate kratom-related compounds.
Using a credible resource for drug screening supplies helps support consistency and reliability across your program.
