Are you asking about Kratom and its chemical compound 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)? Here's what's known:
Kratom is an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree. It's not FDA-approved for any medical use, and the FDA warns against using it due to serious reported side effects.
One of kratom's main Show Full Answer
Are you asking about Kratom and its chemical compound 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)? Here's what's known:
Kratom is an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree. It's not FDA-approved for any medical use, and the FDA warns against using it due to serious reported side effects.
One of kratom's main chemicals, mitragynine, breaks down in the body into 7-OH. Both of these chemicals activate opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord — similar to how opioids work, though the effects can differ. For people managing opioid use disorder, kratom carries some important risks to be aware of:
- It can cause physical dependence and addiction of its own
- Products are unregulated, so strength and ingredients vary widely
- Some products contain unsafe or unlisted ingredients
- Evidence does not support it as a safe or effective treatment for opioid withdrawal
- It may actually make things harder by creating new cravings
There are FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone that are proven to help manage withdrawal and cravings safely. Talking to a healthcare provider about these options is a much safer path forward.
August 16
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