The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has issued a warning regarding the use of products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a chemical found in the kratom plant. According to DSHS, high concentrations of 7-OH can lead to serious health issues and may pose risks for dependence or abuse.
Data from the Texas Poison Center Network shows an increase in reported exposures involving kratom or other products with 7-OH. As of August 27, there have been 192 reports in 2025, compared to 107 for all of 2024 and 122 for all of 2023. Nineteen cases this year involved concentrated forms of 7-OH, mostly reported during July and August. Of those, eleven people required treatment at healthcare facilities.
“Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Kratom and 7-OH products are sometimes marketed as natural remedies for pain, anxiety, or to help with opioid withdrawal. Kratom products typically contain low 7-OH concentrations (less than 2% total content or less). However, semi-synthetic or synthetic 7-OH products have concentrations up to 98% 7-OH and are now more readily available. Concentrated 7-OH is often added to kratom products. Because of its opioid-like characteristics, there is significant potential for abuse of 7-OH at concentrated levels. In studies, 7-OH shows up to 13 times the potency of morphine, an opioid pain-relieving medication. Products containing concentrated 7-OH are sold as pills, gummies, candies, and imitation ice cream cones at gas stations, smoke shops, and online,” according to DSHS.
In July 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration took steps to restrict access to these substances due to their strong opioid-like effects. The FDA has not approved kratom or any product containing 7-OH for medical use.
Reported symptoms after using products with high levels of 7-OH include nausea and vomiting, agitation, confusion, sweating, rapid heart rate and high blood pressure. Other symptoms are trouble breathing, sleepiness or loss of consciousness, seizures and respiratory depression.
DSHS advises avoiding all products that contain concentrated forms of this chemical: “DSHS recommends avoiding products containing 7-OH. Anyone who has health concerns after using 7-OH products should contact their healthcare provider or the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222.”
Healthcare providers are urged by DSHS to offer emergency care as needed when treating patients exposed to these substances: “Healthcare providers should: Provide general emergency and critical care medical support as warranted; Administer naloxone for reversal of respiratory depression; Observe and manage symptoms of opioid use disorder following use of kratom or 7-OH products; Contact the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222 for any questions about medical management.”
Members of the public are encouraged by DSHS not only to avoid these substances but also take extra precautions when purchasing food items such as candies: “People should: Avoid all products containing 7-OH… Examine the packaging and label when buying candies… Keep kratom and 7-OH products away from children… Talk to children… Consult a doctor… Call Poison Help Line…”
Anyone experiencing severe reactions after exposure should seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services.
