What to Know About 7-OH, the New Vape Shop Hazard
A new opioid addiction wave is emerging from all corners of communities: kratom and 7-OH. The FDA recently released a warning of the opioid addiction risk that results from repeated use of kratom or 7-OH products. 7-OH is formally known as 7-hydroxymitragynine. This is the naturally occurring compound in kratom that activates the opioid receptors within the brain. In Kratom, the compound is only found in very small concentrations, while products found for sale have unnaturally high amounts of the addictive component.
Residents should be aware that these products market themselves as plant-based, leading consumers to believe they are safe when they are not. These products have consistently been found to be as dangerous as morphine and have similar withdrawal symptoms to other opioids. Experts warn of potential youth access to the products due to their marketing.
Research on 7-OH has found:
- An increase in overdose deaths involving 7-OH.
- A sharp rise in social media posts during 2024 mentioning 7-OH and/or Kratom.
- By July 31st, 2025, the Kratom and 7-OH exposures had exceeded 2024’s total cases.
Overdose symptoms for 7-OH and Kratom include agitation, nausea, vomiting, and a high heart rate. In approximately a third of the 2024 cases resulted in serious health issues including:
- Vomiting and nausea
- Agitation and confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Sleeplessness
- Sweating
- Increased heart rate
- Seizures
If you or someone you know is struggling with Kratom or 7-OH, please check out the resources below:
How to Get Help (Recovery.com)