Kratom, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, is known for its leaves that contain compounds with mind-altering effects. In recent years, it has garnered attention due to its dual potential for both pain relief and euphoria. For the military, where physical endurance and mental resilience are paramount, substances that influence these areas naturally draw interest.
However, with this potential comes significant concern: the effects on performance, legality, and the potential for dependency. Whether the military tests for kratom is crucial, given its impact on service members’ readiness and overall health. So, understanding the military’s stance on kratom testing is vital.
Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa. Its leaves contain compounds like mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain. Kratom is often marketed as a natural supplement and is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and teas.
People use kratom for several reasons.
It is reported to help with pain relief, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Some users also claim it boosts energy and improves focus. However, the FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use, and it is not considered safe due to potential risks like liver toxicity, seizures, and addiction.
Legally, kratom is not controlled under the Controlled Substances Act in the U.S., but it is banned in some states and countries.
The Department of Defense has added kratom to its list of prohibited substances for service members due to concerns about its safety and potential for addiction. Military personnel are prohibited from using kratom, and it is considered a threat to readiness and safety.
Service members might be drawn to kratom for its purported benefits in managing pain, boosting energy, and alleviating anxiety. However, its use is highly controversial and poses significant risks, including the potential for addiction and adverse health effects.
The military follows strict policies for drug testing to ensure the readiness and safety of its personnel. The types of substances tested include marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamine, MDMA (ecstasy), MDA, heroin, codeine, morphine, hydrocodone, oxycodone, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, benzodiazepines, fentanyl, and steroids.
The testing procedures involve urinalysis, which is the primary method used due to its accuracy and ability to detect a wide range of substances. Urine samples are collected under supervised conditions to prevent tampering.
The samples are then analyzed in forensic toxicology drug testing laboratories (FTDTL) to identify the presence of any of the substances listed.
Random testing is conducted at least once a year for active service members, and reservists and National Guard members are tested once every two years. Testing can also be ordered if there is probable cause or suspicion of drug use, and service members can be asked to consent to testing voluntarily.
The military maintains a zero-tolerance policy for drug use, and failure to comply with drug testing can result in disciplinary action. The goal is to deter drug abuse and maintain a drug-free environment within the military.
Yes, kratom is specifically included in military drug testing protocols. According to the Department of Defense (DoD) policy, kratom has been added to the list of prohibited substances for military personnel. While it is not a controlled substance under federal law, it is considered a drug of concern and is included in standard random urine drug testing (RUT) protocols.
Additionally, military service members are prohibited from using any product containing kratom due to safety concerns, even though its use is not federally illegal.
Kratom is on the Department of Defense’s list of prohibited substances. If military personnel test positive for kratom, they face serious consequences. Administrative actions can include counseling, training, and potential separation from the military.
Legal consequences might involve criminal charges and fines. Career impacts are also significant, affecting prospects and advancement opportunities.
Health advisories warn about kratom’s addictive properties and potential for leading to dependency on other drugs. The military emphasizes the importance of maintaining a drug-free workforce to ensure operational readiness and safety.
Service members are advised to avoid kratom due to these risks.
The military does test for kratom, which is considered a prohibited substance due to safety concerns and potential for addiction. Service members who test positive face serious consequences, including administrative actions, legal charges, and career impacts.
The Department of Defense emphasizes the importance of maintaining a drug-free workforce to ensure operational readiness and safety. It is crucial for service members to stay informed about military drug testing policies and avoid using kratom due to its risks.