Kratom Use in the Army

July 13, 2026

Kratom use in the Army is banned by Army Directive 2026-14, recently published on 23 June 2026, and available for download at this link.

Although it varies from State to State, Kratom is typically legal and easily available for purchase, commonly sold at Gas Stations, Vape Shops, and/or Dispensaries. It is typically consumed in the form of a tablet, capsule, or extract. Kratom leaves may also be dried or powdered and ingested as a tea.

If taken in low doses, Kratom typically produces stimulant effects resulting in increased alertness, physical energy, and/or talkativeness. If taken in higher doses, Kratom typically produces sedative effects. Regardless of the dosages, Kratom can lead to addiction. Kratom use has been connected to psychosis, hallucinations, delusion, confusion, nausea, itching, sweating, dry mouth, constipation, increased urination, tachycardia, vomiting, drowsiness, loss of appetite, anorexia, weight loss, insomnia, hepatotoxicity, and/or seizures. More information about Kratom is available from the DEA at this link.

Kratom use in the Army is not currently part of the standard drug screen (what is tested during a normal UA); however, that could change after the publication of Army Directive 2026-14.

Because Kratom use in the Army is now prohibited, it will likely result in adverse action. Just like the knowing use of other substances, Kratom use the Army will typically result in an Article 15 or GOMOR and the initiation of Separation (Enlisted) or Elimination (Officers). A good rebuttal or Defense to any of these adverse actions can result in the Soldier in question being exonerated.

Importantly, only the knowing use of Kratom is banned. Therefore, just like with other banned substances, the unknowing ingestion of Kratom (innocent ingestion) is not banned. Innocent Ingestion is an affirmative Defense and must be proven by the subject of the positive drug test. Corroborating evidence is key to any such Defense. Since Kratom is legal in most states and readily available at innocent stores (like gas stations), innocent ingestion of Kratom is relatively common.

Any Soldier that tests positive for Kratom or is accused of the knowing use of Kratom in the Army should immediately consult an experienced Military Lawyer. While TDS is available to assist , they are often over-worked, inexperienced, and unwilling or unable to provide the appropriate amount of time and attention needed, which is ill-advised with so much at stake. A civilian Military Lawyer can be retained, which allows a Soldier to be represented by a proven lawyer with good former client reviews.

This Article was written by Attorney Matthew Barry. Attorney Barry is highly rated by former clients and has a proven track record of success. He has extensive experience with all types of Military Adverse Actions, including those related to Kratom use in the Army.

The Law Office of Matthew Barry represents Servicemembers worldwide. He has offices on the East Coast, West Coast, and in the Central U.S.