Kratom, a Southeast Asian tree in the coffee family, has become widely available in the United States for several years. Its leaves have traditionally been chewed or smoked to manage pain and fatigue. However, a synthetic form of kratom called Kratom-7 OH has surged through Florida and is being marketed as a safe “health” product.
Kratom-7 OH is highly potent and contains an alkaloid found in kratom leaves at low levels. It has been isolated into a concentrate, making it a highly addictive substance. The FDA has labeled Kratom-7 OH as an emerging opioid threat due to its potency and addictive potential.
Studies have shown that Kratom-7 OH can cause respiratory depression, with effects three times greater than morphine. This means that users are at risk of overdose and even death. In addition, withdrawal symptoms from Kratom-7 OH can be severe, including joint pain, diarrhea, mood swings, and depression.
The FDA has taken steps to regulate Kratom-7 OH, listing it as a drug of concern. However, legislation to ban its sale altogether has not been passed yet. This leaves many people vulnerable to its addictive potential.
A recent case study highlights the dangers of Kratom-7 OH. A patient in their 20s was unable to stop using the substance, leading to severe withdrawal symptoms and depression. Treatment was challenging, but the patient is now doing well in recovery.
The FDA has also warned about the risks of Kratom-7 OH. The agency has issued guidelines for safe use and has cautioned against its misuse. However, more needs to be done to educate consumers about the dangers of this synthetic substance.
In conclusion, Kratom-7 OH is a highly addictive and potent substance that poses significant health risks. Its addictive potential is comparable to opioids, making it a serious concern for public health.
Source: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/use-your-brain/202511/kratom-7-oh-kratom-on-steroids