DHSS Issues Health Advisory About Risks Linked To 7-OH

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is warning health care providers and the public about the growing health risks associated with 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent psychoactive compound derived from the kratom plant.

 Key concerns of 7-OH include the following.

• Isolated 7-OH is up to 13 times more potent than morphine at the opioid receptors and significantly more addictive than natural kratom.
• These products are sold without restriction in Missouri, often in the form of gummies, candies, powders or liquid shots. They are not FDA approved and lack safety data for human use.
• Users have reported serious symptoms including nausea, confusion, insomnia, seizures, respiratory depression and even death. Overdose risk increases when 7-OH is combined with alcohol or other substances.

A suspected overdose should be treated as an opioid emergency. Call 911 and administer naloxone if available. Individuals experiencing dependence on the substance should seek help from a health care provider or call 988 for behavioral health support.

DHSS recommends the following actions.

• Avoid products containing 7-OH.
• Read supplement and candy labels carefully.
• Keep these products away from children and pets.
• Educate youth about the dangers of 7-OH.
• Keep naloxone accessible in case of emergency.
• Seek medical care or call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 with concerns.

For treatment resources, visit the Missouri Department of Mental Health’s locating treatment and services page.