As of July 2026, the DEA has moved to place 7-OH into Schedule I in the coming weeks. If you’re struggling with addiction, Brightside is here to help you find a path to recovery.
Kratom is an herbal substance that comes from a tree found in Southeast Asia, is a legal drug that may be used to treat opioid withdrawal, pain, or stress. However, kratom is not approved by the FDA, and between 2014 and 2019, more than 3,400 calls were made to poison centers relating to kratom ingestion. Listed as a “drug of concern” by the DEA, kratom is an addictive substance like opioids.
7-OH, or 7-hydroxymitragynine, is a semi-synthetic, concentrated byproduct of kratom that is chemically modified to deliver far higher doses than found in traditional, natural products. This derivative alkaloid is increasingly found in “herbal” shots, gummies, vapes, drinks, and capsules, and because of a lack of testing and standardization, can vary significantly in strength, purity, and safety.
7-OH is related to kratom, but it is not the same as the traditional kratom leaf. That distinction matters, for understanding both the risk and the 2026 scheduling action, which is aimed at concentrated 7-OH products, not natural kratom leaf.
Even though 7-OH is derived from an herbal substance, the real danger comes from today’s concentrated or chemically modified products that deliver far higher doses than would be encountered in traditional use. These retail items may be marked as “natural,” but they can produce strong, opioid-like effects and come with all the same risks.
7-OH binds strongly to mu-opioid receptors and can be more potent than morphine. That potency is why users report effects similar to prescription opioids and why medical teams now see respiratory depression, dependence, significant withdrawal symptoms, and ICU-level emergencies when mixed with other opioids or alcohol.
Medications effectively reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with 7-OH dependence. This helps patients manage their addiction more comfortably and maintain their daily activities without discomfort.
Because MAT helps reduce cravings, it lowers the potential for 7-OH and opioid use. The tailored medication schedule ensures a consistent therapeutic level of medication, reducing the risk of relapse.
Brightside Recovery offers multiple MAT options, including buprenorphine and naltrexone medications, to ensure each patient has access to medication that meets their specific needs.
By eliminating the need for daily dosing, reducing cravings, and mitigating withdrawal symptoms, patients can focus on other aspects of their treatment plan, like counseling.
Because 7-OH acts on opioid receptors, stopping suddenly after regular use can trigger withdrawal like opioid withdrawal, including nausea, sweating, agitation, muscle aches, trouble sleeping, and strong cravings. This is uncomfortable but manageable with medical support, which is exactly what medication-assisted treatment is designed for.
While you are arranging treatment, avoid mixing 7-OH products with alcohol, benzodiazepines, sleep medications, or other opioids, and keep naloxone on hand if you or someone close to you uses any opioid-like product. Seek emergency care right away for blue or gray lips, extreme sleepiness, or slowed or absent breathing.
Ready to take the first step toward recovery? Brightside uses telehealth to ensure everyone can access life-saving addiction treatment no matter where they are. Schedule your virtual visit today!
From scheduling changes to addiction concerns, 7-OH is often a confusing and concerning substance. Here are the questions we get most from patients and family members alike.
