7-OH is being marketed to kids despite its opioid-like effects. It’s contained in gummies, drink mixes, and shots.
A synthetic opioid derived from the kratom plant sold in gummies, tablets, and drink mixes is slated to be restricted due to concerns that it has a serious potential for abuse.
The compound is called 7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly known as 7-OH. It occurs naturally in trace amounts in kratom. Products containing 7-OH have potentially dangerous, enhanced levels and are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the recommendation on June 29, saying that the 7-OH should be scheduled under the Controlled Substances Act because of its ability to bind to opioid receptors, which makes it a pain reliever that can be more powerful than morphine.
HHS added that it is focused on a concentrated byproduct of the kratom plant and not natural kratom products.
Here’s what to know about the synthetic opioid.
What Is 7-OH?
A variety of products contain 7-OH, including gummies, drink mixes, and shots. While the substance occurs naturally in kratom, it is in trace amounts.
A product also known as 7-hydroxy, 7-OHMG and “7,” 7-OH is a powerful psychoactive compound added to products in concentrated amounts and, according to the FDA, falsely marketed as kratom. The agency says it is “engineered to be addictive” and is a “potent opioid by design.”
According to the FDA, Americans have reported side effects including dependency, withdrawal, overdose, and death.
“7-OH is an opioid that can be more potent than morphine,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary. “We need regulation and public education to prevent another wave of the opioid epidemic.”
Kratom itself is a plant native to Southeast Asia that has been used by consumers to treat pain, anxiety, and even drug dependence.
Regulators have had kratom in their sights for around 10 years due to concerns about potential negative impacts. Both distributors and users have opposed possible regulation, saying kratom is a safer alternative to opioid use to treat pain and drug addiction.
The FDA says that 7-OH is not approved for the treatment ofpain, depression, anxiety or other disorders, nor is it approved to treat opioid or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor withdrawal symptoms.
The availability of 7-OH in products has been a concern of the FDA because it can be purchased online and in local corner stores and vape shops. The department is particularly concerned about the availability to children and teenagers.
According to officials, products with 7-OH may not be labeled clearly or accurately, and might be marketed as regular kratom.
