Another alkaloid that is a potent derivative of the kratom plant is 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). Even though kratom has been used throughout the ages in Southeast Asia as a stimulant and analgesic, 7-OH is a more active and potent compound that has been in the limelight in the recent past due to its dangers and possible advantages. This blog takes it a notch higher to know what 7-OH is, the risks that are associated with it, its legal status, and how it can be used responsibly.
This concentrated compound is increasingly found in commercial products, separating it from traditional kratom leaf due to its significantly enhanced strength. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone considering use or concerned about its public health impact.
What is 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)?
7-hydroxymitragynine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in the kratom plant. It is known for its potent opioid-like effects, which include pain relief and sedation. However, due to its strength, it carries a higher risk of dependence and adverse effects compared to other kratom compounds. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers about the potential dangers of products containing 7-OH, including addiction, anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal distress, insomnia, seizures, and withdrawal symptoms.
What Are 7 OH Products?
7 OH Products are dietary supplements or extracts, which include 7-hydroxymitragynine, usually in concentrated forms. The products are being sold to be used in mood enhancement and pain relief. These are usually sold in different shapes, such as capsules, tablets, tinctures, and powders, and are available over the internet or in smoke shops and convenience stores. Nonetheless, no 7-OH products have been approved by the FDA to be used medicinally, and their safety and effectiveness have not been determined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
7-OH Products vs. Kratom: What’s the Difference?
Feature | Kratom (Mitragynine) | 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) |
|---|---|---|
Source
| Natural kratom leaves
| Extracted or synthetically enhanced
|
Potency | Mild-to-moderate | 10–20× stronger |
Addiction Risk | Moderate | High |
Legal Status | Varies by region
| Often restricted or under review |
Common Forms | Leaf, powder, capsules | Concentrate, extract, tincture |
While both kratom and 7-OH are derived from the same plant, 7-OH is significantly more potent and carries a higher risk of adverse effects and dependency.
Potential Benefits of 7-OH Products
Some users of 7-OH products report positive effects, which contribute to their continued use despite the known risks. These anecdotal benefits, shared within user communities, commonly include:
- Effective pain relief
- Noticeable mood enhancement
- Increased energy levels
- Improved alertness and wakefulness
They are, however, anecdotal in nature, and 7-OH products have not been approved by the FDA to be used as medicine. The dangers are that the products in question might turn out to be more than the perceived good.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved 7-OH for any medical use, and the significant potential risks associated with these products may heavily outweigh any perceived benefits.
Risks and Side Effects of 7-OH Products
The application of 7-OH products may cause some adverse effects, which may include:
- Addiction and dependence
- Respiratory depression
- Liver and kidney toxicity
- Cardiovascular issues
Psychological side effects, which include anxiety, hallucinations, and even irritability
FDA has been informed of the adverse effects related to 7-OH products, such as addiction, anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal upset, insomnia, seizures, and withdrawal.
How to Choose Safe 7-OH Products
In case you decide to use 7-OH products, the following precautions should be taken into account:
- Purchase from Reputable Sources: It is critical to only shop at reliable and transparent vendors that provide verifiable, third-party lab testing results. These certificates of analysis (CoAs) confirm the product’s contents and check for harmful contaminants like heavy metals or adulterants.
- Avoid Marketing Hype: You should consciously avoid and be wary of products that make bold claims about being “ultra-potent” or “enhanced,” as these labels often indicate a higher risk of adverse effects and increased potential for dependency.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: It is strongly advised to seek consultation with a medical practitioner or doctor before use. This is especially important if you have underlying health conditions, such as liver or heart issues, or if you are currently taking other prescription medications to avoid dangerous interactions.
- Verify Local Legality: You must be fully aware of the legal status of 7-OH products in your specific region, as laws can vary widely between states and countries. Possessing or purchasing a product that is banned in your area can carry significant legal consequences.
The Future of 7-Hydroxymitragynine Research
Recent research on the pharmacological effect and safety profile of 7-hydroxymitragynine is yet to be finalized. Although there is some initial evidence of a prospective therapeutic use, risks of undesirable effects seem to be high, and regulatory control is currently insufficient, which is a great cause of concern. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is keeping track of the situation and has suggested more severe regulatory statements with respect to 7-OH products.
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FAQs
Is 7-OH stronger than kratom?
The 7-hydroxymitragynine is an alkaloid, which is much stronger than the kratom alkaloid mitragynine, with estimates of potency ranging to thirteen times that of morphine. It, therefore, has a greater likelihood of negative side effects and dependence.
Is 7-hydroxymitragynine safe to take?
No, it is not considered safe for consumption. The FDA has not approved 7-hydroxymitragynine for any medical use due to serious associated health risks, including a high potential for addiction, dangerous respiratory depression, and potential liver toxicity or damage with use.
How does 7-hydroxymitragynine make you feel?
Users may experience intense pain relief, mood elevation, and significant sedation, though individual experiences can vary. However, these short-term effects coincide with severe risks, including a high potential for developing addiction and other adverse physiological consequences that can impact health.
What are kratom products?
Kratom products are derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, traditionally used for their stimulant and analgesic properties. They are commercially available in various forms for consumption, including raw powders, compressed capsules, and highly concentrated liquid extracts.
Does 7-OH show on a drug test?
Standard drug panels do not typically screen for 7-hydroxymitragynine. While specialized tests can detect it, its use may also potentially cause a false positive result for other opioids on some standard tests, though this is not guaranteed.
What are 7-hydroxymitragynine pills?
These pills are dietary supplements that contain concentrated amounts of the 7-OH compound. They are commonly marketed for their potent mood-altering and pain-relieving properties, but they carry significant and serious health risks that are not well understood.
What is the source of 7-hydroxymitragynine?
7-hydroxymitragynine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found within the leaves of the kratom plant, though it is present only in very small quantities. It is often chemically extracted or synthesized in higher concentrations for use in commercial products.
What is the best 7-hydroxymitragynine?
There is no “best” 7-hydroxymitragynine product available to consumers. Due to the severe and high risks associated with its use, medical professionals strongly advise avoiding all products that contain this potent and unregulated compound for your safety.
