INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The FDA is calling on the Drug Enforcement Administration to classify 7-OH, 7-hydroxymitragynine, as a Schedule I controlled substance with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. 

What is 7-OH, 7-hydroxymitragynine? 

It is a naturally occurring substance found in the kratom plant, a tropical evergreen tree, with opioid-like properties. Products sold under the name 7-OH contain a synthetic concentrated version of the compound. Reports state it binds to mu-opioid receptors in our body and is stronger than morphine. It is commonly sold in convenience stores, gas stations and online in the form of tablets, gummies and drink mixes. There are also widely available supplements containing trace amounts of natural kratom whose creators have been calling for the ban of the synthetic compound.  

What are the effects of taking 7-OH?

It’s marketed to ease pain, improve mood, enhance focus and help with opiate withdrawal, leading millions of Americans, ages 12 and up, to use it. Possible severe effects include vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, hallucinations, delusions, liver damage,  high blood pressure, respiratory distress, seizures and death (reports of the latter cite 7-OH was used in combination with other drugs). 

The call for its ban comes at a time when there have been federal cuts to addiction support and mental health care.

Before a final decision is made by the DEA, the public will be able to give comments in favor of or against regulations. When the DEA last planned to regulate kratom in 2016, there was pushback from users, suppliers and members of Congress.  

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