A product sold at a gas station, smoke shop, or online can look harmless. That does not mean it is.
7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly called 7-OH, 7-HMG, or 7-hydroxy, is an alkaloid associated with the kratom plant. Natural kratom contains 7-OH in small amounts, but concentrated 7-OH products can contain much higher levels. These products may appear as tablets, gummies, drink mixes, or shots.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers about concentrated 7-OH products because 7-OH acts on opioid receptors and carries risks that include dependence, addiction, and withdrawal. No 7-OH product is FDA-approved to treat pain, anxiety, opioid withdrawal, or another medical condition.
What Is 7-OH Addiction?
Regular exposure to an opioid-like substance can lead to physical dependence. Dependence means the body adapts to a substance and may produce withdrawal symptoms when use decreases or stops.
Addiction is more complex. It generally involves compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. A person may also develop tolerance, which can lead to using larger amounts to achieve similar effects.
Possible signs of problematic 7-OH use may include:
- Increasing the amount or frequency of use
- Difficulty reducing or stopping use
- Strong urges or cravings
- Spending significant time obtaining or using 7-OH
- Continuing use despite negative consequences
- Experiencing withdrawal after reducing or stopping use
- Using 7-OH to avoid feeling sick or uncomfortable
These signs do not establish a diagnosis. A licensed healthcare professional can perform an appropriate assessment.
What Are the Symptoms and Risks of 7-OH?
The effects of 7-OH can vary according to the product, concentration, amount used, frequency of use, other substances involved, and individual health factors.
The FDA has received reports of adverse effects associated with 7-OH products, including gastrointestinal distress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, seizures, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms.
Because concentrated 7-OH has opioid properties, taking it with other substances that depress the central nervous system may create additional risks. Anyone with questions about substance interactions should speak with a healthcare professional.
What Does 7-OH Withdrawal Feel Like?
Withdrawal can occur when someone who has developed physical dependence suddenly reduces or stops using a substance.
Reported 7-OH withdrawal symptoms include:
- Restlessness
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Cold sweats
- Difficulty sleeping
Withdrawal experiences can differ substantially. There is no one-size-fits-all timeline. The severity and duration can depend on factors such as frequency of use, product strength, length of use, and other substances or medications.
For that reason, going cold turkey without medical guidance may not be the best move. A healthcare provider can assess potential risks and discuss appropriate options.
How Is 7-OH Addiction Treated?
There is no FDA-approved medication specifically for 7-OH addiction. However, healthcare professionals can evaluate substance use patterns, withdrawal symptoms, co-occurring concerns, and opioid-related risks to determine an appropriate treatment approach.
Depending on the individual assessment, care may involve medical supervision, withdrawal management, behavioral health services, counseling, substance use disorder treatment, and ongoing recovery support.
For people with opioid use disorder, FDA-approved medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are established treatment options. A qualified provider must determine whether an opioid use disorder diagnosis is present and which treatment, if any, is clinically appropriate.
7-OH Addiction Treatment in Greater Pittsburgh
Right Track Addiction Services provides evidence-based addiction treatment services for communities throughout Greater Pittsburgh. Services include medication-assisted treatment, Suboxone treatment, counseling, behavioral health support, telemedicine options, and other outpatient addiction treatment resources.
Questions about 7-OH use can start with a professional assessment. No judgment. No guesswork. Just a conversation about what is happening and what treatment options may be appropriate.
Contact Right Track Addiction Services to learn more about addiction treatment and recovery resources available in the Greater Pittsburgh area.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or a loved one is seeking treatment, please contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Right Track Addiction Services provides evidence-based treatment services. However, treatment plans vary for each individual. Please consult a licensed provider to determine the best course of care for you.
Recovery is a personal journey, and results vary based on individual circumstances. Our team provides evidence-based support, but we cannot guarantee specific outcomes.
Information about possible signs, symptoms, or behaviors in this article should not be interpreted as a diagnosis. A qualified healthcare professional should evaluate individual medical and behavioral health concerns. In a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate emergency medical care.
