FDA Plans Ban on Potent Opioid-Like Kratom Compound 7-OH

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is moving to classify 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent opioid-like compound derived from the kratom plant, as a controlled substance to curb its over-the-counter availability nationwide. The FDA argues that 7-OH, which is significantly stronger than morphine, contributes to the opioid epidemic and is being sold in various consumer products like gummies and ice cream at smoke shops and convenience stores. While the FDA's focus is on banning the synthesized, concentrated 7-OH rather than the natural kratom leaf, officials warn that the synthetic versions pose significant risks due to their potency and lack of safety data. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will make the final decision on scheduling 7-OH, with the FDA urging swift action to prevent further public health crises. Stakeholders including addiction experts support the restriction to keep dangerous opioids off the streets, while some in the kratom community acknowledge the dangers of synthetic alterations but advocate for the natural plant's continued availability. This regulatory push reflects a broader effort by U.S. health officials to address addiction and prevent a potential new wave of opioid-related harm.