Johns Hopkins Kratom Research: Addiction & Survey Findings

KRATOM RESEARCH · ADULTS 21+

What the Johns Hopkins kratom survey found

A 2020 paper by Garcia-Romeu and colleagues described an anonymous online survey completed by 2,798 kratom users in 2017. It reported participants' experiences and reasons for use. It was not a clinical trial demonstrating that kratom treats a medical condition.

Reported experiences and adverse effects

Some respondents attributed benefits to kratom. Approximately one-third reported adverse effects, generally described as mild and brief. Seventeen respondents sought treatment for adverse effects, and 56 respondents—2% of the sample—met criteria for moderate or severe kratom-related substance use disorder.

What an online survey cannot prove

Respondents selected themselves into the survey and described their own experiences. These findings cannot establish cause and effect, predict an individual customer's outcome or represent every person who uses kratom. They also do not prove that a retail product is safer than prescription treatment.

Can kratom be habit-forming?

Yes. Regular kratom use can lead to dependence and withdrawal. Tolerance, physical dependence and a substance use disorder are related but distinct; a survey percentage is not a guarantee about your risk. Trouble reducing use, increasing amounts or symptoms after cutting back are reasons to seek professional advice.

A 2025 Johns Hopkins discussion highlights the need for individualized assessment of kratom use disorder. Product type, amount, formulation, other substances and a person's health history matter. A whole-leaf product and a concentrated or mixed-ingredient product should not automatically be treated as equivalent.

Research interest is not a treatment recommendation

Kratom and its alkaloids remain subjects of research. Kratom has not been established as safe and effective for any medical use and is not an FDA-approved treatment. Do not replace prescribed care or attempt to manage opioid withdrawal using instructions from a retailer.

Important safety information

Nausea, constipation, dizziness and drowsiness have been reported. Rare serious events, including seizures and liver injury, have been reported in people using kratom. Other substances, variable product composition and incomplete information may complicate interpretation; they do not rule out kratom contributing to harm.

For adults 21+ only. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not combine with alcohol, opioids, sedatives or other drugs. Discuss medications and medical conditions with a healthcare professional. Do not drive or operate machinery after use. Keep away from children.

Read the sources

• 2020 study: user demographics, use patterns and reported effects
• Johns Hopkins: kratom use disorder and individualized assessment (2025)
• NIH NCCIH: research limits and safety

Related reading: kratom and opioid receptors · tolerance and dependence guidance · Kratom FAQs.

Reviewed October 3, 2026. The 2020 study is historical research, not a new study announcement. Educational information does not replace medical advice. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.