Can I Take Suboxone to Withdraw from Kratom 7OH? | Clinical EvidencE
Can I Take Suboxone to Withdraw from Kratom 7OH?
Written by Benjamin Zohar
Publication Date: 20 November 2025
Reviewed by Brandon McNally, RN
Yes, Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) may be used under medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms associated with kratom, particularly from its potent alkaloid 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), though its use is considered off-label and not formally approved by the FDA for this purpose.
Understanding Kratom and Its Active Compound
Kratom (*Mitragyna speciosa*) is a plant native to Southeast Asia whose primary psychoactive compounds—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)—bind to the brain’s mu-opioid receptors, producing opioid-like effects such as pain relief, euphoria, and sedation [[7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) an...]](https://www.issup.net/node/32674). While some users consume kratom to self-treat chronic pain or opioid withdrawal, regular use can lead to physical dependence, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms when stopped abruptly [[Kratom for opioid withdrawal: ...]](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prescription-drug-abuse/in-depth/kratom-opioid-withdrawal/art-20402170).
Symptoms of kratom withdrawal may include:
- Muscle aches and insomnia
- Anxiety and irritability
- Nausea and hot flashes
- Cravings and mood swings [[How to Taper Off and Quit Krat...]](https://7summitpathways.com/blog/how-to-taper-off-and-quit-kratom-7-oh/)
Clinical Evidence for Suboxone Use in Kratom Withdrawal
Although kratom is not a traditional opioid, its pharmacological action on opioid receptors has led clinicians to explore medications used for opioid use disorder (OUD)—such as Suboxone—to ease kratom withdrawal.
- A 2023 case report published in *PMC* documented successful management of kratom use disorder using buprenorphine/naloxone, which alleviated withdrawal symptoms and supported abstinence [[Successful Management of Krato...]](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10386870/).
- The Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute at the University of Washington notes that healthcare providers have found methadone and buprenorphine effective for managing kratom dependence [[Kratom & 7-OH: What do we know...]](https://adai.uw.edu/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/Kratom-202404.pdf).
- A Tennessee clinic reported positive outcomes using Suboxone to treat patients attempting to quit kratom, stating it reduced cravings and improved treatment retention [[Does Suboxone Help Kratom 7-OH...]](https://nashvilleaddictionclinic.com/does-suboxone-help-kratom-7-oh-withdrawal/).
However, caution is advised. The Drug Information Group at the University of Illinois at Chicago warns that using opioid agonist therapies like buprenorphine for kratom withdrawal should not be first-line treatment due to the risk of reinforcing opioid dependence [[What data exists on the use of...]](https://dig.pharmacy.uic.edu/faqs/2023-2/august-2023-faqs/what-data-exists-on-the-use-of-buprenorphine-and-buprenorphine-naloxone-for-the-treatment-of-kratom-withdrawal/).
Important Considerations
- Medical Supervision Required: Suboxone should only be administered by a qualified provider experienced in medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Self-medicating can be dangerous and counterproductive [[Medications for Substance Use ...]](https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/treatment/options).
- Off-Label Use: While Suboxone is FDA-approved for opioid use disorder, its use for kratom is not officially sanctioned. Decisions must be made on a case-by-case basis [[Treatment | National Institute...]](https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/treatment).
- Alternative Approaches: Some programs use non-opioid medications like clonidine (for autonomic symptoms) or SNRIs (for mood regulation) during kratom tapering [[Kratom Use Disorder Management...]](https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05883358).
- Comprehensive Care: Behavioral therapy, counseling, and peer support are crucial components of recovery, especially when discontinuing kratom use.
If you are attempting to stop kratom—especially after heavy or prolonged use—seek professional help. Detox protocols should be individualized, and care should be monitored by an addiction medicine specialist. For confidential support and connections to treatment providers who understand kratom withdrawal, call (631) 888-6282 [[Drug & Alcohol Rehab in Long I...]](https://longislandaddictionresources.com).
Call Now: (631) 888-6282
Speak with a licensed treatment specialist about safe, medically supervised detox from kratom and alternative strategies for recovery.
Crisis Resources
- Emergency: Call 911
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (Free, confidential, 24/7)
- Long Island Crisis Center: (516) 679-1111
Internal Links with Glossary Integration
External Links with Natural Anchor Text
- For a curated list of accredited drug rehabs in Long Island that accept major insurance plans.
- Explore comprehensive Long Island addiction resources, including detox, IOP, and aftercare services.
- Learn about inpatient detox and recovery programs at Every 1 Center in Troy, NY.
- Discover individualized care at Hudson Valley Addiction Treatment Center (HVATC).
- Connect with professional interventionists across New York through Intervention NY.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. Treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. Always verify insurance benefits directly with your plan or provider. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
Meta Description: Can I take Suboxone to withdraw from kratom 7OH? Evidence-based guide to off-label buprenorphine use for kratom withdrawal, clinical studies, and medical supervision.