INFO PAGE

About Kratom and 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain psychoactive compounds - mainly mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) - that act on the brain.

At low doses, kratom can feel stimulating and give people energy; at higher doses, it can act like an opioid and feel relaxing and sedating. Although some people use kratom for pain, anxiety, or to manage withdrawal from opioids, it is not approved by the FDA. Product safety and strength is not regulated and vary widely.

7-OH and Why It Matters

7-OH is a potent component of kratom and one of the main causes of its opioid-like effects. Some products sold in stores or online have been found to contain additional or synthetic (lab made) 7-OH. Synthetic 7-OH greatly increases the risk of overdose and other health problems. Synthetic 7-OH has recently been linked to 6 overdose deaths in Los Angeles.

Health Concerns

  • Dependence and withdrawal: Regular use of kratom can lead to symptoms similar to opioid use disorder (or opioid addiction).
  • Toxicity: High doses or synthetic products have been linked to seizures, liver injury, and breathing problems.
  • Unregulated products: Kratom products may contain unpredictable amounts of ingredients or contaminants.
  • Overdose risk: Deaths involving kratom or 7-OH often involve other drugs (such as fentanyl, methamphetamine) as well.

Legal Status

Kratom is not federally banned, but some states and cities restrict or prohibit sales. In October 2025, California began banning the distribution of 7-OH products under its health and safety laws.

What San Franciscans Should Know

  • Local San Francisco health authorities have identified kratom and 7-OH in a small number of overdose cases. Every case also had the presence of other substances.
  • The California Department of Public Health is taking action to confiscate kratom and 7-OH products from retail stores and prevent their sales.

What You Can Do

The safest choice is not to use kratom or 7-OH. If you do use:

  • Avoid mixing with alcohol or other drugs.
  • Carry naloxone – it can reverse a kratom or 7-OH overdose.
  • Treatment is available and effective. Seek medical help if you have withdrawal symptoms or trouble stopping. (insert link to our treatment landing page)
  • Call the California Poison Control Center if you are experiencing any concerns. It is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-222-1222.

Report kratom or 7-OH sales to the California Department of Public Health complaint hotline (800-495-3232) or submit an electronic report here.