Jasmine Douglas, M.D.
Board-certified addiction medicine specialist, UT Health East Texas
You may have recently heard about 7-OH or seen products advertised at smoke shops, vape stores, convenience stores or online. If you’re wondering what they are and why healthcare professionals are talking about them, here’s what you need to know.
What is 7-OH?
7-hydroxymitragynine, often called 7-OH, is a chemical found naturally in the kratom plant. In the plant itself, only tiny amounts are present.
Many of the products sold today are different. Instead of traditional kratom leaf, they contain highly concentrated or synthetic forms of 7-OH. Some products may also contain related compounds called mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MP), MGM-15 or MGM-16. These products are much more potent and can have effects similar to opioids.
Why is everyone talking about it now?
In early July, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced its intent to temporarily classify concentrated and synthetic 7-OH products, along with MP, MGM-15 and MGM-16, as Schedule I controlled substances because of concerns about abuse and public safety.
At the same time, Texas strengthened regulations on high-potency 7-OH products while continuing to regulate traditional kratom separately.
Because of these changes, some products may become harder to find, and more people may seek medical care if they experience withdrawal after stopping them.
Can someone become dependent on 7-OH?
Yes. Like other opioid-like substances, repeated use of concentrated 7-OH products can lead to physical dependence. If someone stops using them suddenly, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Anxiety or feeling on edge
- Fast heart rate
- Muscle aches
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Strong cravings
- Sweating or chills
- Trouble sleeping
Withdrawal can be uncomfortable, but help is available. A healthcare professional can discuss safe treatment options and help make the process more manageable.
Can 7-OH cause an overdose?
Yes. Many people assume products sold over the counter are safe, but that is not always the case.
High-potency 7-OH products have been linked to serious breathing problems, unconsciousness, and, in some cases, cardiac arrest. Medical reports have shown that naloxone (Narcan) can reverse these opioid-like effects, just as it does with other opioid overdoses.
If someone is difficult to wake up, stops breathing normally, or becomes unresponsive after using one of these products, call 911 immediately. If naloxone is available, administer it while waiting for emergency medical services.
When should you seek help?
If you or someone you know is having difficulty stopping 7-OH products, you are not alone. Treatment is available.
The Addiction Medicine team at UT Health East Texas provides compassionate, evidence-based care for people experiencing dependence on 7-OH, kratom-related products and other substances. Treatment may include medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms, counseling and ongoing support to help people recover safely.
The bottom line
Many people have never heard of 7-OH until a friend recommends it, or they see it for sale in a local store. Although these products are often marketed as natural or safer alternatives, concentrated 7-OH products can act much like opioids and carry real risks, including dependence, withdrawal, and overdose.
Learning the facts is the first step. Recovery is possible, and help is available.