Residents are being warned about the growing presence of a potent opioid-like substance known as 7-hydroxymitragynine or “7-OH,” which health officials say is being sold in products marketed as enhanced kratom.
The Hawai’i Department of Health reports that 7-OH is a concentrated, and in some cases synthetic version of a compound naturally found in the kratom plant. Unlike traditional kratom products, concentrated 7OH formulations may carry a much higher risk of addiction, overdose and other serious health complications.
According to the department, the compound is believed to be significantly stronger than morphine. Officials also warned that synthetic kratom extracts such as MGM-15 may pose similar dangers, especially when combined with other substances.
Products containing 7-OH are increasingly appearing in smoke shops, vape stores, convenience stores and online marketplaces. They are often sold as gummies, tablets, flavored drinks and other products that may appeal to younger customers.
Health officials cautioned that products labeled as “legal highs,” “enhanced kratom” or “7-OH” may produce opioid-like effects, including sedation and slowed breathing, while also increasing the risk of dependency and overdose. Health officials added that some products may contain unknown or highly concentrated ingredients and could interact dangerously with alcohol or other drugs.
“7-OH is an emerging public health threat,” Department of Health Director Kenneth Fink said in in a news release. “These products are being marketed in ways that may lead consumers to believe they are natural or safe, when in reality they can act on the brain similarly to opioids.”
The U.S. Food an Drug Administration also has raised concerns about concentrated 7-OH products, noting that while trace amounts occur naturally in kratom, the compound is not approved as a dietary supplement and cannot legally be added to food products.
Federal regulators have begun taking enforcement action against certain products containing concentrated 7-OH, including gummies, drink mixes and tablets marketed to consumers. The Drug Enforcement Administration is also reviewing whether the substance should be classified as a Schedule I controlled substance.
The Hawai’i Department of Health said it is working with partners to explore possible regulatory and enforcement actions involving the sale and distribution of products containing 7-OH in the state.
Officials are encouraging parents to speak with children and young adults about the risks associated with emerging substances sold online and in vape and smoke shops.
Anyone experiencing severe reactions after using products containing the substance should seek immediate medical care. Naloxone, also known as Narcan, may help reverse an overdose, but emergency services should still be contacted immediately.
Click here for more information about 7-OH products and FDA warnings.
