A potent opioid derived from the Kratom plant, 7-hydroxymitragynine, is being sold openly in Virginia with little oversight, health experts warn. The chemical, which doesn’t naturally occur in high amounts, is now packaged as gummies, pills, and drops and marketed as a natural kratom extract.
Doctor Chris Holstege, director of the Blue Ridge Poison Center, says symptoms can range from respiratory failure to depression and are often deadly. He criticizes the lack of quality control measures on these products, stating that labeling should not be trusted.
The FDA agrees, saying many 7-OH products are marketed as kratom extracts or enhanced kratom when in reality they contain a concentrated synthetic potent form – an opioid. Holstege calls for urgent action to regulate these products and prevent further harm.
To help alleviate symptoms, Naloxone (also known as Narcan) can be administered if someone is experiencing breathing issues due to the chemical. Vape shops are a primary source of these unregulated products, but controls need to be put in place before more people get hurt or die.
Source: https://www.29news.com/2025/08/08/blue-ridge-poison-center-raises-concerns-about-kratom