Drug Facts
Click the buttons for each drug class to be taken to an external site to learn more
7-OH
How do people get 7-OH products?
7-OH products are sold online and in retail stores like gas stations and vape shops as chewable or dissolvable tablets, gummies, oils, vape pens, and liquid “shots.”
The packaging used often looks like energy drinks or candies, which may give consumers the false impression these products are safe or natural alternatives to prescription opioids or stimulants. 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) Products | Flickr
What are the risks?
7-OH has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for medical use and has not been proven to be safe or effective. According to the FDA, kratom or products containing kratom or 7-OH can result in serious risks, including liver toxicity, seizures and substance use disorder.
Regular use of kratom products like 7-OH can lead to symptoms like opioid use disorder (e.g., severe withdrawal symptoms).
Short-term outcomes of using 7-OH include nausea, increased heart rate, and difficulty breathing.
How common is 7-OH use?
While the use of 7-OH may still be relatively rare, it is important to increase education and awareness surrounding 7-OH products. Most 7-OH products are mislabeled as kratom products and almost one million youth and young adults have reported using kratom in their life.
What can DFCs do about 7-OH?
Provide information to your partners and the general public on the risks of 7-OH and the connection between mental health and substance use.
Enhance skills among youth to refuse substances in general and shift social norms around use of 7-OH and/or kratom products.
Change access to 7-OH and other unregulated substances by working with local retailers and business groups to enforce age restrictions.
Educate/inform policymakers about modifying/changing laws and policies related to age verification/ID, 7-OH and other supplement product marketing and placement.
In case of an emergency, use naloxone!
Naloxone can reverse a potential overdose from a 7-OH product.
Dial 911 if someone is unresponsive or needs immediate medical attention.
Contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) or visit www.poisonhelp.org
For more information, see What you need to know about 7-OH from FDA and Kratom 101: What You Need to Know from the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO).
Opioids
These are powerful pain-relieving substances derived from the opium poppy or synthesized in labs. They bind to opioid receptors in the brain, reducing the perception of pain but can lead to significant physical dependence and addiction if misused.
Depressants
This class of drugs slows down the function of the central nervous system. Common examples include benzodiazepines and barbiturates, which are often prescribed for anxiety or sleep disorders but can be addictive and dangerous when combined with other depressants like alcohol.
Stimulants
These substances increase the activity of the central nervous system, leading to heightened alertness, energy, and euphoria. Examples include caffeine, nicotine, and amphetamines, which can be used therapeutically or recreationally, but can also lead to dependence and cardiovascular issues.
Alcohol
A widely consumed depressant that slows brain function and impairs cognitive and motor skills. While moderate consumption might have social benefits, excessive drinking can lead to addiction, liver disease, and other serious health issues.
Inhalants
These are volatile substances that produce chemical vapors, which are inhaled to induce psychoactive effects. Commonly abused inhalants include glue, paint thinners, and nitrous oxide, which can cause sudden sniffing death syndrome and long-term damage to organs.
Cannabis/Marijuana & CBD
This plant contains psychoactive compounds like THC, which produce a range of effects from relaxation to altered sensory perception. While some jurisdictions have legalized its medical and recreational use, it can impair cognitive function and is subject to misuse.
Tobacco, E-Cigarettes, and Vaping
Found primarily in tobacco products (including e-cigarettes), nicotine is a highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. While it increases alertness and produces a feeling of pleasure, long-term use is associated with serious health risks like cancer and heart disease.