While 7-OH occurs naturally in very small amounts in the kratom plant, concentrated and synthetic 7-OH products are different from traditional kratom leaf. These products may contain significantly elevated amounts of 7-OH and are commonly sold as tablets, gummies, powders, drink mixes, shots and dissolvable strips.
Federal health officials are increasingly sounding the alarm.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration describes concentrated 7-OH products as potent opioid products that have not been proven safe or effective for any use. The FDA has received reports of adverse effects associated with 7-OH products, including addiction, anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal distress, insomnia, seizures and withdrawal symptoms. There are currently no FDA-approved drugs containing 7-OH.
In July 2026, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration announced its intent to temporarily place certain 7-OH substances into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, citing their high potential for abuse and lack of an accepted medical use. The proposed federal action targets synthetic 7-OH and products containing elevated concentrations rather than botanical kratom containing naturally occurring trace levels.
Products Can Be Easy to Overlook
Part of the concern is how these substances are sold and marketed.
Concentrated 7-OH can appear in products that may not immediately look like opioids. Products are available in forms such as flavored gummies, tablets and small drink shots, and may be marketed using terms such as 7-OH, 7-Hydroxy, 7-HMG, 7-OHMG or 7-OH-mitragynine.
The FDA has warned that some products promoted as "enhanced" or "spiked" kratom may also contain substantially more 7-OH than would naturally occur in kratom leaf.
This makes awareness particularly important for parents, caregivers and community members who may not recognize these products or understand their potential risks.
What Residents Should Know
The City encourages residents to:
- Know what 7-OH looks like. Be aware that it may be sold as tablets, gummies, powders, shots and other products.
- Look beyond the word "kratom." Packaging may instead use names such as 7-OH, 7-Hydroxy or 7-HMG.
- Do not assume a product is safe because it is available for purchase. The FDA states that there are no FDA-approved drugs containing 7-OH and recommends that consumers avoid 7-OH products.
- Talk openly with teens and young adults. Discuss the risks of using substances purchased online, at convenience stores, smoke shops or from friends.
- Recognize signs of dependence. Regular use can lead to cravings, withdrawal symptoms and difficulty stopping.
- Seek credible help. People who are concerned about their own substance use or that of someone they care about should turn to qualified health care professionals and trusted recovery resources.
The City also urges residents to be cautious about products or online services claiming to provide a quick solution for 7-OH dependence. As awareness of 7-OH grows and regulations change, companies are increasingly advertising products and services directly to people seeking to reduce or stop their use. No medication containing 7-OH has been approved by the FDA to treat withdrawal, addiction or any other medical condition.
Recovery Is Possible. Help Is Available.
For individuals struggling with 7-OH, kratom, opioids or other substances — and for family members concerned about someone they love — help is available in the community.
The City of North Charleston's Bridge2Hope app connects residents with local overdose prevention, treatment and recovery resources in one convenient place.
Through Bridge2Hope, residents can find:
- Naloxone locations
- 24/7 recovery support through FAVOR Lowcountry
- Local support groups
- Sober living resources
- Resources for veterans
- Support for families
- Local overdose information and additional recovery resources
Download Bridge2Hope for naloxone locations and 24/7 support:
https://qr1.be/VFH8
If you believe someone is experiencing an opioid overdose, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if available.
Knowing what's out there, recognizing the risks and knowing where to turn for help can make a difference.
Know the signs. Make the call. Save a life.
About Bridge2Hope
Bridge2Hope is a community resource connecting residents of the greater Charleston area and the surrounding Tri-County area with opioid overdose prevention, treatment, recovery and family support resources. The app provides convenient access to local naloxone locations, recovery services, support groups and 24/7 assistance.
SOURCE City of North Charleston
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