The Texas Department of State Health Services has issued a warning advising the public not to use products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a chemical found in the kratom plant. The department reports that while 7-OH occurs naturally in low levels in kratom, concentrated forms are now being sold as liquid extracts, powders, and gummies.
According to data from the Texas Poison Center Network, there have been 192 reports of exposures involving kratom or other products containing 7-OH so far this year. This is an increase compared to 107 reports for all of 2024 and 122 for all of 2023. Of this year’s cases, 19 involved concentrated forms of 7-OH, with 11 resulting in health problems serious enough to require treatment at a healthcare facility.
Symptoms reported after using products with 7-OH include nausea, vomiting, agitation, confusion, sweating, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, trouble breathing, sleepiness or loss of consciousness, and seizures.
Kratom and its derivative products are sometimes marketed as natural remedies for pain relief or anxiety and as aids for opioid withdrawal. However, neither kratom nor 7-OH has FDA approval for medicinal use. Products containing these substances have not been proven safe or effective.
The department recommends that people avoid all products containing 7-OH—even those claiming to treat health conditions—examine packaging carefully when purchasing candies or treats, keep such products away from children and pets, discuss risks with children and teens, consult medical professionals before using supplements marketed for pain or mood enhancement, seek professional help for addiction or mental health concerns if needed, contact healthcare providers or the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 with questions about exposure to these substances, and call emergency services if someone requires urgent medical attention.
